Concern at increase in unregistered food sales

Written on the 12 December 2016

A surge in the numbers of people in Broome selling food from home on Facebook has prompted a warning about the need to register food businesses.

Food safety is a significant concern in Australia, with an estimated 14,000 people each day affected by food poisoning that in extreme cases can be fatal.

All food businesses in WA must comply with the Food Act 2008 which includes notifying and registering with local government.

This applies not only to restaurants and cafes, but to anyone handling food intended for sale or selling food, for commercial, charitable or community purposes, and even as a once-off.

It is an offence to operate an unregistered food business and can result in spot fines or prosecution.

Customers should only buy food from registered businesses or they place themselves at significant risk, as unregistered businesses have not been inspected to make sure they are preparing food safely.

Shire of Broome Environmental Health Officers work hard to make sure that food sold in Broome is safe.

Information on starting a food business is available online at the link below, and Shire Environmental Health Services can be contacted on 9191 3456 or shire@broome.wa.gov.au