Brighten Institute Australia: Leading the way in food safety compliance

In response to the NSW Food Authority’s recent press release announcing the implementation of Standard 3.2.2A of the Food Standards Code, Brighten Institute Australia (BIA) is stepping up to assist food retailers in meeting the new requirements. 

 

 

Standard 3.2.2A aims to enhance food safety management across Australia, particularly in food service and retail businesses that sell unpackaged, potentially hazardous, ready-to-eat food. Implementing these standards is a response to the imperative to reduce rates of foodborne illnesses, which have been a persistent concern in the industry. 

 

According to a risk profile conducted by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), food service and related retail businesses, they accounted for a significant portion of reported foodborne illness outbreaks nationwide. Factors such as improper temperature control, poor personal hygiene, and cross-contamination were identified as joint contributors to these outbreaks.

 

Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, Standard 3.2.2A introduces three crucial food safety management tools: 

1. Food Safety Supervisor: Designated individuals within businesses must be certified within the past five years to possess the necessary skills and knowledge in food safety management. BIA offers certification courses for individuals who want to become food safety supervisors. These supervisors have the skills and expertise to oversee safe food-handling practices within their businesses. With a focus on empowering businesses with qualified personnel, this tool ensures effective management and direction towards maintaining food safety standards. 
2. Food Handler Training: All personnel handling unpackaged, potentially hazardous, ready-to-eat food must undergo appropriate food safety training or demonstrate sufficient knowledge of food safety and hygiene. BIA provides training programs tailored to the needs of food handlers. Whether through accredited courses or internal training initiatives, the institute ensures that all personnel handling potentially hazardous food are well-versed in food safety and hygiene practices. 
3. Substantiation of Critical Food Safety Controls: It’s imperative for businesses engaged in higher-risk food handling activities to substantiate the implementation of critical food safety controls. At BIA, we make sure that businesses are knowledgeable in maintaining proper records and documentation to demonstrate compliance with food safety standards. By emphasizing the importance of record-keeping and adherence to prescribed provisions outlined in Standard 3.2.2, the institute ensures that businesses are equipped to actively monitor and manage food safety risks.

 

 

In light of these new requirements, BIA reaffirms its commitment to supporting food businesses and their employees in upholding the highest standards of food safety. By providing comprehensive training programs and resources, the institute aims to facilitate a smooth transition towards compliance with Standard 3.2.2A, ultimately contributing to a safer and healthier food environment nationwide.

 

For more information about Brighten Institute Australia’s food safety courses and services, please email us at contact@brighten.edu.au or visit our website at www. brighten.edu.au. 

 

Source: Standard 3.2.2A serves up new tools for food retailers | NSW Food Authority