Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Environmental Health Directorate Seizes Food Items from Unapproved Vendors

Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Environmental Health Directorate Seizes Food Items from Unapproved Vendors

The Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Environmental Health Directorate has begun a crackdown on food vendors operating without the required health screening and certification, as part of measures to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of communicable diseases in the municipality.

The exercise, being led by the Municipal Environmental Health Director, Mr. Matthew Nyinkoh, has resulted in the seizure of food items, including canned food products, from vendors who have allegedly failed to undergo the necessary screening and certification processes.

According to the Directorate, the exercise is aimed at ensuring that food vendors comply with public health requirements before being allowed to operate.

Seized Food Items to Be Disposed of

Speaking to Peace News at the Directorate's office in Bibiani, Mr. Matthew Nyinkoh disclosed that the Directorate intends to seek a court order to dispose of the food items seized from unapproved vendors.

He explained that obtaining the necessary certification alone does not give a vendor the right to operate under unhygienic conditions.

Mr. Nyinkoh stressed that even vendors who have successfully gone through the screening process and have been certified will not be permitted to sell food if their operating environment is found to be filthy or poses a risk to public health.

He therefore urged the public and other stakeholders to report vendors who are found operating in unhygienic environments.

According to him, such cooperation is essential in protecting the health and safety of consumers within the municipality.

Directorate Intensifies Screening

Mr. Nyinkoh further explained that the Environmental Health Directorate has intensified its efforts to ensure that all food vendors are given the opportunity to go through the required screening and certification process.

He said the Directorate would not accept what he described as flimsy excuses from vendors who fail to comply with the requirements, adding that the necessary sanctions would be applied to offenders.

He, however, noted that genuine concerns would be considered where necessary, provided they are properly communicated and understood by the Directorate.

The Municipal Environmental Health Directorate has therefore urged all food vendors operating within the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality to comply with health and sanitation requirements to avoid sanctions.

The Directorate also appealed to consumers to be vigilant and patronise food vendors who maintain clean and hygienic environments.

Source:Bibianinews.com/Samuel Awuku - Addo