The owner of this business copped a $7,800 fine for food standards violations.
Esperance takeaway-restaurant owner Steven Xuexing Zheng copped a total of $7,800 fines on Monday.
He was found guilty of three counts of failing to comply with a requirement of the Food Standards Code, and one of permitting poultry to be kept in accordance with various shire health local laws.
The prosecution said multiple visits to Xing’s Sushi and Noodle on Andrew Street revealed a build-up of food debris, inconsistent cleaning, layers of dirt in the handwashing area and meat left unrefrigerated.
Additionally, the prosecutor said chickens and ducks were being kept not in accordance with requirements “right outside” the business and there had been a recorded incident of food poisoning from chicken satay.
A Shire spokesperson said the legal action came after “significant work” by Shire Environmental Health officers, educating the business owners on their responsibilities under State Government regulations and help with advice and resources to achieve compliance.
“Court action is a last resort after a graduated response has been applied by qualified Shire officers,” she said.
“Council and the Shire take local health and safety very seriously, and are committed to working with business owners to help them meet the State Government legislation and regulations every Local Government must enforce.”
The officer said this included giving Environmental Health officers the time and means to build positive relationships of trust with food businesses and create environments supporting the community’s health and wellbeing.
“These officers prioritise support for food businesses and community organisations that handle food, and have received much complimentary feedback on their approachability, willingness to help, and extensive information sheets, templates and advice forums,” she said.
“If public safety is deemed to be at risk after every supporting action has been provided, court proceedings to protect the community from serious food safety concerns and health consequences will be commenced.”
She said the Shire held a workshop last year to update community groups and sporting clubs on new food safety requirements.
“This information session demonstrated how easy it can be to keep the required records in one location, offered assistance and advice, and provided a file with all the resources and templates needed to comply with the new State Government requirements,” she said.
“These resources and more are relevant to all food handling businesses and organisations, and are available by contacting the Environmental Health team on health@esperance.wa.gov.au.”
More information sessions are planned.
The Weekender saw a steady stream of customers entering the food outlet the day after the court imposed the fine.
