Food Authority reminds NSW businesses to train an FSS

NSW businesses operating in the food services industry are being reminded to train at least one staff member as a Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) by the NSW Food Authority.

The FSS program was introduced in 2003 to reduce the spread of foodborne diseases in the food services industry.

It organises "high quality and consistent training" for NSW businesses with Registered Training Organisations (RTO) around the state, to ensure staff have the knowledge and skills to handle food safely.

At the end of the training, the staff member will be presented with a FSS certificate.

Polly Bennett, chief executive officer of the NSW Food Authority, said many NSW businesses had already enrolled staff in the program.

She added, however, that any NSW businesses that have not should make it a priority.

NSW businesses covered by the FSS program include clubs, restaurants, cafes and pubs, to name just a few.

"It is a legal requirement that you have a trained FSS operating in the premises," said Ms Bennett in a January 7 statement.

In NSW, it's estimated the "incorrect handling" of food is responsible for the spread of one-third of all foodborne diseases. This costs the state up to $400 million each year!

"Improving food handler skills and knowledge through recognised training is the most logical solution to reducing the risk of food poisoning," announced Ms Bennett.

No matter how careful your staff are, however, accidents can happen. That's where a business insurance policy that contains business liability insurance will come in handy.

This can protect you if and when you are held responsible for injuring a third party - for instance, if they become ill after eating at your restaurant.

For more information, get in touch with Elders Insurance today!