Food poisoning can be the end of a chef's dreams and their restaurant. If a business is found liable for or likely to cause an outbreak of food poisoning, there can be a prosecution by health authorities.
Food poisoning and other food borne illnesses can usually be attributed to incorrect handling, preparation or storage of food. Generally the problem can easily be solved - in fact, food poisoning is nearly always avoidable.
The main focus of the Australian meat industry's activities continues to concentrate on food safety, an imperative priority given the ongoing concerns of the general public regarding the safety and quality of meat. The public requires ongoing education and reassurance about the safety of the foods they consume.
Quality Assurance systems (QA systems) continue to be an
important factor. The systems ensure formalisation of procedures, with the ultimate objective being to increase customer confidence in the knowledge that Australia's meat supplies continue to meet strict criteria which are judged by an independent body.
The Australian New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA) has proposed a new national food safety system and will introduce a food safety programme based on the principals of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) a key part of the programme which requires all Australian food businesses to take responsibility for the safety of food they provide. This new programme will be run complementary to the farm and abattoir programmes.
In additional, the implementation of international standards, such as ISO 9000, is having a positive impact. Many leading wholesalers have achieved, or are working towards ISO 9000 certification, providing a sound basis for continuing improvement and a clear focus on better meeting customer's needs.
Government Inspection
Standards of hygiene, controls against contamination of meat and compliance with importing countries' requirements are assured through on-site inspections by representatives of the Australian Government's Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS).
In addition, all export approved abattoirs or packing plants in Australia supplying products to a variety of markets must be registered and are regularly checked by government veterinary inspectors. This system ensures that Australia is able to comply with all importing countries' regulations.
