Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has updated Safe Food Australia to incorporate the new Standard 3.2.2A Food safety management tools, which comes into effect in December 2023.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said the updated guidance for local government and food businesses was part of a suite of initiatives developed with states and territories to support strengthened food safety in the food service and retail sector to benefit consumers and protect public health and safety.
Food service, such as cafes and restaurants, are integral to our way of life and are vitally important to the Australian economy. Many businesses do an excellent job in providing Australians with safe food.
“The key changes to the standard are the requirements for training for food handlers and supervisors and substantiating key actions at critical points known to manage food safety risks,” Dr Cuthbert said.
“Food businesses have 12 months to implement the changes, which come into effect 8 December 2023,” Dr Cuthbert said.
“I am pleased federal, state and territory governments are taking a joint approach to improving food safety standards across Australia and appreciate food businesses' cooperation in ensuring consumers continue to have high confidence in the safety practices of the food service and retail sector.”
Food businesses are encouraged to contact their local enforcement authority for further information about compliance with the new food safety standards.