The Ministry of Health and Medical Services recently closed a major supermarket in Rakiraki due to serious food safety violations discovered during a Food Unit inspection. The inspection revealed troubling findings, including meat that showed signs of freezer burn, softness, and unpleasant odors. The supermarket’s freezing equipment was also found to be malfunctioning, operating outside the required temperature range, and featuring broken gauges.
Additional violations included inadequate cleaning practices, missing records for temperature and pest control, and an infestation of pests such as weevils and cockroaches in both storage areas and on store shelves. The conditions of the butcher shops and retail areas presented significant health risks for consumers.
A representative from the Ministry emphasized the importance of compliance with food safety regulations for consumer protection and fostering a fair marketplace for business owners. “Compliance is vital for protecting consumers and fostering a fair marketplace for all business owners,” they stated.
This closure in Rakiraki is part of a nationwide initiative to bolster food safety standards, with prior similar actions taken against other supermarkets, such as a notable case in Nadi. These measures illustrate the Ministry’s firm commitment to food safety.
The Ministry encourages community members to report any observed violations, promoting public engagement in food safety. Through rigorous enforcement, the Ministry not only aims to enhance public health but also to rebuild trust among consumers in local food establishments. This proactive approach signals a promising future for improving safety standards within the food sector.
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