Gourmet Guardian: Providing safe food solutions and quality assurance services
I don’t know about you, but nothing beats great gourmet food at a fabulous restaurant.
Whenever that happens, I’d swear this is what my tongue is trying to say… “More, More, More! That way!!!!”
When you’re in the food services sector, as we are, food safety is the top priority, but it’s closely followed by enjoyment of the foods and surrounds. Wouldn’t you agree?
New food laws require certain food businesses in the NSW hospitality and retail food service sector to have at least one person trained Food Safety Supervisor (FSS). Businesses have until 1 October 2011 to appoint their trained Food Safety Supervisor and notify the relevant council. Penalties for not having a Food Safety Certificate in NSW include a $330 fine for individuals or a $660 fine for corporations, plus placement on the NSWFA “Name and Shame” website for 12 months.
Click on the image below to access an online Food Safety Supervisor Training course.
The analysis of the cost of weekly food for families shows the wide contrast in the world we live in today. If you click on the hyperlink or photo, you’ll be taken to a blog post that summarises the variety from all 4 corners of the world. I’m sure you’ll agree that Australians have it pretty good!
The cost of food for a week - Darfur Province, Sudan
Ever wonder whether buying dented cans is a good bargain? Are they safe…?
I recently came across an email that highlighted this and I thought it was worth mentioning it to you.
Is it safe to buy dented cans?
This blog is all about bringing you the most relevant food safety tips and research to help you be more informed and aware of potential food safety risks.
I am sure you’ve wondered whether dented cans are safe… You’re at the supermarket and come across a few dented cans discounted to clear.
Here’s what the scientific research shows: You should AVOID ALL DENTED CANS.
That’s it. Pretty simple.
Health food fanatics will tell you to avoid ALL canned foods, but if you do eat canned food, make sure the can is scratch-free, dent-free and most important – make sure there are no leaks of any sort.
The reason not to buy a dented can is that all cans have a lacquered inside surface. That surface can be damaged when it’s dented. The lacquer may crack and contaminate the food.
But, it’s not only the inside lacquer that can cause a health and food safety risk. If the lacquer peels off or cracks, the food may come into contact with untreated metal, causing tainting.
Either way, you want to avoid the risk. It’s not worth the 20 or 50 cent discount.
When a can is severely dented, as shown in the photo above, the all-important seal can be damaged allowing air and bacteria inside the can.
The biggest challenge when considering buying a dented can is that you don’t know how long that can has been sitting there on the shelf.
Trust me, it’s not worth the risk.
Gavin Buckett Food Safety Expert & Former Apprentice Chef of the Year
My name is Gavin Buckett and I have over 10 years experience in this industry and have also practiced as a chef. I have also had the honour of being named Victorian Apprentice Chef of the year. These years of experience mean that I live and breathe food safety.
With friendly, cost effective and practical solutions I will empower your staff to do the right thing around food safety. I will help you put in place systems to ensure your peace of mind in this area.
