By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE proprietor of a restaurant in Hallam has been stung with a $10,000 fine and 150 hours of community service after pleading guilty to 37 charges for not complying with the Food Act.
The proprietor of A Taste of Italy, located in Spring Square, faced the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court last month in relation to 43 charges of non-compliance under the Act.
The charges included seafood being stored in a dishwashing sink, mouse excrement found in cupboards, and food being stored in tea towels in such a way that presented the possibility of cross contamination.
The proprietor pled guilty to 37 of the charges and was convicted and placed on a 12 month community corrections order in which they are required to undertake 150 hours of unpaid community work.
The proprietor was also ordered to pay part of Casey council’s costs, fixed to the amount of $10,000.
“Council takes food safety seriously and continues to be proactive in ensuring that food sold in Casey is safe and suitable for human consumption,” Mayor Sam Aziz said.
“Council is committed to working with the local food industry to ensure compliance with the Act, undertaking regular food inspections and conducting free food safety information sessions throughout the year to protect the health and safety of our local residents.
“Council urges all food business operators to ensure they’re aware of and are adhering to the strict legislation and requirements under the Act, or expect to face hefty penalties.”
For more information regarding food safety and regulations in Victoria, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/foodsafety.
