BINTULU: Two food processing factories were ordered to close down after they failed to comply with the hygiene specifications and proper food handling practices.
The premises were ordered to be closed following a routine operation to inspect food processing factories around the town from Aug 17 to 30.
In addition, nine compounds totalling RM12,900 were issued under Section 32B of the Food Act 1983 to the premises owners and food operators for various offences.
Among the offences detected were the presence of pests such as cockroaches, flies and rats; unsanitary condition of the premises and equipment; a pile of unrelated items in the premises; and improper storage of raw materials, food products and packaging materials.
According to the Bintulu Health Division Office, the routine operation was to ensure that food premises comply with hygiene aspects and proper food handling practices.
Throughout the operation, a total of nine food processing factories were inspected by the Food Safety and Quality Unit together with the division health office’s enforcement team.
The office stated that it is the responsibility of owners and food operators to ensure that their premises are clean at all times as stipulated in the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009.
All food processing factory operators should have been trained and aware of good food handling practices through Food Handler Training (LPM), which is the main requirement before the factory is allowed to operate.
The Bintulu Health Division Office regrets that the premises operators do not practice all the standard practices as required.
Any further queries or concerns regarding food safety can be referred to the Bintulu Food Safety and Quality Unit at 086-858200.
