Businesses that prepare and serve food in Australia and New Zealand need to be aware of changing laws

Recent changes to the Food Standards Code will impact all businesses in Australia and New Zealand that prepare and serve food - including charities and not-for-profits.

From 8th December 2023, businesses that handle unpackaged food requiring temperature control and serve it ready-to-eat, must have a qualified food safety supervisor on staff. They must ensure all food handlers are trained in food safety and hygiene. Higher-risk businesses must also demonstrate their safe food handling practices.

While some businesses already require a food safety supervisor, the new requirements now also apply to school canteens, childcare services, charities and not-for-profits, correctional centres, delis and supermarkets, and some coffee vendors.

Food Authority licensed businesses that do not conduct retail sale of food and one-off not for profit events will be exempt from the new requirements.

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 8th December 2023.

FSANZ Chief Executive 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.

Dr Cuthbert added “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.”

Food busin​​esses are encouraged to contact their local enforcement authority for further information about compliance with the new food safety standards. 

Image. Credit: City of Sydney