Health inspectors have intensified their efforts to enforce food safety compliance in Nadi, Sigatoka, and Lautoka, resulting in significant actions against businesses violating hygiene standards and licensing requirements. This initiative, part of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services’ ongoing campaign, aims to uphold national food safety standards and protect public health.
Recently, inspectors issued 29 Abatement and Illegal Operation Notices to establishments that failed to meet the requirements of the Food Safety Act. This highlights a critical need for improved hygiene practices within the food service sector. Notably, two businesses—a supermarket and a restaurant—were ordered to close after disregarding a 24-hour Abatement Notice, emphasizing the serious consequences associated with repeated regulatory breaches.
Currently focusing on Nadi, the inspection team plans to extend its operations to Lautoka next week. Authorities have stressed the importance of legal compliance for business owners under the Food Safety Act, reiterating their duty to provide clean, safe, and high-quality food to customers.
A spokesperson for the health unit reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to pursuing legal action against any business that continues to violate established regulations. Over the past two years, there have been several successful prosecutions, demonstrating the Ministry’s determination to rigorously enforce food safety laws.
To enhance these efforts, the Ministry is reviewing the Food Safety Act to introduce stricter enforcement measures, which may include fixed penalties for non-compliance, aimed at deterring future violations.
Despite the stringent approach, the Ministry of Health remains supportive of local businesses, offering free training on Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) and basic food safety. Health officials urge food service providers to prioritize hygiene and compliance, emphasizing that the community’s health depends on food safety.
These proactive measures not only seek to protect consumers but also promote a culture of accountability and support for compliant businesses, contributing to a healthier food environment in Fiji. The ongoing commitment from health authorities reflects a positive trend towards enhanced food safety standards, ensuring that all citizens can enjoy safe and high-quality meals.