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With the increase in consumption of foods typical of the end of year festivities, inspection actions in establishments that sell products that are in high demand during the period have intensified.
Between the 10th and 17th of this month, 525 tax actions were carried out in different areas. The operations resulted in the seizure of more than 2.5 tons of food considered unfit for consumption.
According to Health Surveillance, most of the products had expired expiration dates or were stored outside the appropriate temperature, situations that could compromise food safety.
During the period of the operation, 139 establishments were notified and 19 closure terms were drawn up. Most of the subpoenas referred to the lack of adequate licensing or the need for structural reforms.
The closures mainly focused on production areas with unsatisfactory hygienic and sanitary conditions.
Oversight
Despite the punitive measures, the Health Surveillance’s actions also had a preventive nature. Around 52% of the actions carried out were in terms of guidance, focusing on the regularization of establishments before the application of more severe sanctions.
As informed by the agency, inspections include analysis of the locations’ infrastructure, compliance with good food handling practices and the adoption of food safety measures.
When irregularities are identified that pose an immediate risk to the consumer, those responsible can be fined in amounts ranging from R$2,000 to R$75,000, in addition to the possibility of partial or total closure of the establishment.
Guidance at the time of purchase
According to auditors, extra attention should be paid when purchasing products. In the case of meat, according to experts, the presence of changes in the color or odor of the product are clear signs of spoilage and must be taken into consideration when choosing.
In the case of frozen foods, care must be equally rigorous. It is essential to check the expiration date, the functioning of the freezers, the presence of a lid and possible signs of defrosting or water accumulation, which indicate failures in temperature control.
Servers also reinforce that food purchases must always be made in establishments of known origin, where it is possible to identify the origin of the products sold.
Until the beginning of this month, DF Health Surveillance received around 1,100 complaints involving bakeries and supermarkets, registered through the Participa DF portal.
In the same period, approximately 2,600 inspection actions were carried out in these segments. The population can request health inspections through the Federal District Government ombudsman channels, available online, by calling 162 or in person at GDF service units.
