Some restaurants in Labasa are facing significant hygiene challenges, particularly in their cooking and food preparation areas. Divisional North Health Inspector Vakaruru Cavuilati noted that while many restaurants maintain a clean front, there are serious concerns regarding the conditions of their backroom facilities.
“The risks are high for consumers who patronize these establishments,” Mr. Cavuilati stated. This situation has resulted in the shutdown of two restaurants for failing to adhere to food safety regulations.
“We have designated food officers who can enforce closures for non-compliance,” he explained. “If a restaurant receives a ‘D’ grade during an assessment, that leads to immediate closure.”
Mr. Cavuilati highlighted that while some restaurants uphold acceptable standards, others exhibit considerable discrepancies, with many requiring substantial improvements.
“The inspection of restaurants will continue, as it has become evident that it is necessary,” he said. “This oversight is long overdue, especially with the high volume of visitors and the accompanying risks.”