Townsville City Council is commending food businesses across the city for their high standards of food safety during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Officers working in Council’s Environment Health division have reported a high compliance rate from food businesses that are soldiering forward at this time.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said it was great to see businesses not only continue to operate, but to do it at such a high standard.
“I am conscious of the current challenges faced by food businesses during this time, especially those who’ve had to adjust their usual business practices to adapt to the changing environment,” Cr Hill said.
“But with more than 150 inspections completed in the last three weeks, I’m pleased to report that we are seeing excellent results across the board.”
Community Safety and Environment chairperson, Councillor Margie Ryder, said the officers were visiting food businesses to check on COVID-19 practices.
“The Council officers are checking for measures implemented by business to continue to operate in these COVID-19 times, including hand washing facilities, good hygiene practices and good storage methods,” Cr Ryder said.
“Business operators have excelled through this difficult time by adapting their practices to uphold high levels of food safety standards. This means that they can continue to provide essential services to the community.
“Our officers are also offering advice and education to these businesses to ensure they are able to continue operating during this period.”
Cr Ryder said businesses who were still operating should register with Support Local Townsville, a platform created to catalogue which businesses are still up and running.
“Many businesses have changed their offerings during this time. Council wants to help the community know which shops and food outlets are open for business by advertising their offerings free of charge on our website,” she said.
“It’s easy to sign up – just visit the Support Local Townsville page on the Council website to register.”
