The Consumer Council of Fiji reports receiving food-related complaints every other day, as shared by consumer officer Senivesi Lutu during a recent food awareness workshop. This event highlighted various unhygienic practices observed in food establishments across the country, illustrated by photos taken during their inspections.
Lutu emphasized that these images were not sourced from customer complaints but derived from direct observations in the field. She urged bakery owners and food establishment operators to recognize these issues as “eye openers” and to implement necessary strategies to enhance food safety for consumers.
Working collaboratively with the Health Ministry, the council aims to address these pressing food safety concerns. “When consumers come forward with complaints, we collaborate with the Ministry of Health to take informed actions,” Lutu noted, stressing the significance of trainings and inspections for food establishments.
Lutu pointed to alarming practices she witnessed, such as potatoes being stored in drainage areas before preparation. She cautioned that customers might be unaware of the unsafe conditions behind the scenes despite enjoying their food.
During her address, Lutu reminded food operators of the economic realities consumers face today, highlighting that many people struggle even to spend a modest amount on a meal. She asserted, “Ensuring hygiene in your establishments is essential to avoid complaints.”
This commitment to food safety aligns with wider efforts across Fiji, notably echoed by Seema Shandil, the CEO of the Consumer Council, whose agency has reported over 341 food-related complaints just this year. Shandil calls for heightened compliance with the Food Safety Act, especially given that patrons are becoming increasingly aware of food quality and hygiene standards.
The survey findings emphasize an upward trend in consumer expectations around food safety, which reflects a more informed market prepared to demand higher standards from food establishments. With ongoing collaboration between consumer protection agencies and health authorities, there is hopeful anticipation that these efforts will lead to improved food safety standards and enhanced public health.
The drive for transparency and compliance is vital not only for consumer safety but also for fostering greater trust in Fiji’s food service industry, ultimately aiming for a healthier dining environment for everyone.
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