Syd businesses encouraged to talk safety with NSW Food Authority

The Sydney Food Regulation Forum is one of a series of consultation events the Food Authority hosts across the state to meet directly with those involved in food retail and service in an effort to improve food safety for the consumers of NSW.

NSW Food Authority CEO Polly Bennett said the forum is intended to provide information, education and dialogue between retail food businesses, council Environmental Health Officers, who are responsible for the food safety inspection of retail premises, and the Authority.

"Food safety is the number one priority of the NSW Food Authority and its food regulation partners," Bennett said.

"Having the opportunity to meet with councils face to face helps strengthen the partnership we share and meeting with operators themselves is a great way to explain food safety requirements and to hear about the industry's issues.

"Another benefit of the forum will be the chance for the Authority to speak to businesses about the opportunities for improved compliance outcomes through initiatives like the Food Safety Supervisor training and the Scores on Doors food hygiene rating program.

"Both of which are designed to improve food safety standards and to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness, at the same time serving to increase consumer confidence in the sector.

"I encourage food businesses to take the time to come along and have their say and find out what support is available to them," Bennett said.

"However I understand the demands placed upon the time of small business operators so to accommodate those who can't make it there is an online discussion forum at www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/regional-forums where people can submit questions or issues for discussion prior to the event."

The forum will be held at the Authority's Newington office on Wednesday 6 November 2013.

Local business operators interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP by midday on Monday 4 November 2013 via the NSW Food Authority's website, via email [email protected] or by phone 1300 552 406.