Crop Over Vendors Reminded To Practise Food Safety
Vendors are reminded to practise food safety this Crop-Over season to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. This advice was given today from the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
According to the Ministry, handwashing continues to be the most important infection prevention and control tool in the prevention of foodborne disease outbreaks during events.
Persons are encouraged to wash their hands, for 20 seconds, particularly after using the bathroom, before and after handling food, as well as before and after serving food.
Additionally, the standard is that hot foods should be kept hot, above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and cold foods should be kept cold, 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Health authorities also advise that food handlers should not mix cooked and uncooked foods, and that kitchen utensils are well sanitised and clean. Surfaces where food is prepared should also be cleaned and sanitised using a simple but effective solution of soap and water or a cleaner.
Food vendors are encouraged to:
- have “running water” in a bucket with a tap to wash their hands
- have coverings for their heads and beards
- not wear jewellery when serving food
- wear light, loose clothing
- wear clothing with sleeves
- store food 18 inches off the ground in outdoor settings
- keep food six inches from the floor in indoor settings
- make sure food products are bought from reputable sources
- cover food bins for waste/garbage
- discard bags of waste appropriately for collection
- transport food using appropriate transportation; for example, no vehicle that carries materials such as cement should be used to transport food. This may result in health inspectors condemning the food.
Furthermore, vendors are advised to place boiling water in their hot boxes and warmers for a period of time prior to the placement of food.
Vendors are also reminded that they should apply to the nearest polyclinic for a temporary restaurant permit in order to operate.
Author: Melissa Rollock
Publish: July 17, 2025