KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – Consumers are being advised to make a report to the relevant authorities, when they are sold food that is not fit for consumption.

“If you are sold unfit food or food in damaged packaging, you should make a formal complaint to your health authorities,” said Regional Veterinary Public Health Supervisor, South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), Veron Denton.

He said persons should also contact the Bureau of Standards, Consumer Affairs Commission or public health departments.

Denton, who was addressing a recent JIS Think Tank, said the Ministry of Health has a legal mandate to ensure that the public gets safe food and has trained public health inspectors, who visit food establishments regularly.

He reminded food distributors to adhere to the five key areas of food safety, which are: wash hands and all food contact surfaces; separate raw and cooked food to avoid cross contamination; cook food thoroughly; keep food at safe temperature; and use safe water and safe raw materials.

He noted that if the food is expired, it should be taken out of the supply chain because it can cause serious food-borne illnesses or food poisoning.

“Your nose knows best. If it smells off, then something is wrong, it’s not good. Sunken eyes, soft saggy flesh, absence of redness are also signs that the food is not fit for consumption,” he pointed out.

Denton also advised consumers to be cautious about where they buy food and strongly recommended that they make purchases from established or registered entities that have a certificate and food handler’s permit clearly displayed to the public.

He also urged persons to check food packaging, expiry dates, and look for any sign of rust, bloating or damage on packaged items.

The Ministry of Health is observing National Food Safety Week from November 15-21 under the theme: ‘Safe Foods from Production to Consumption: The Gateway to Health and Wealth.’