Food

Food is the "bread 'n butter" of an environmental health officer's work to ensure people do not get food poisoning. Food must be safely prepared and it is important that the wholesomeness of food is maintained. This applies to takeaway outlets, cafeterias, restaurants and other food handling businesses as well as in our homes.

Ashburton EHO's issue certificates of registration and regularly survey public food businesses and investigate complaints. Food outlets are assessed by officers annually and receive a grading based on risk. Premises may be graded A if the standard is excellent, B if very good, D ungraded and E ungraded - high risk.

Click on the highlighted sections below to learn about food safety in our community.

Starting a Food Business: Council environmental health staff-members have prepared guidelines for prospective food business owners. Thorough pre-planning may save you valuable time and money; "Guidelines for Opening a Food Business"

Food Safety Programme: A FSP is an alternative way to registration by Council. It is a written plan which deals with risk factors aiming to ensure food is safe to eat: Food Safety Programme

Food Stalls and Barbeques: Here is a concise summary of requirements: “Safe Food For Stalls And Barbeques”

Keeping Food Safe: Information contained here: Keeping Food Safe contains guidelines for keeping food safe during storage, preparation, cooking and reheating. The New Zealand Food Safety Authority website contains details pertaining to food safety, illnesses, allergies and other food-related information.

Food Safety Training Requirements: Food staff working in Ashburton need to have formal training in food safety. This is explained in the pamphlet: Food Safety Training