Food Safety in the Community
Reporting a food complaint – food poisoning or food premises hygiene
You can report a food poisoning or food hygiene complaint by contacting the Council Environmental Health Department on 9599 4417 or online.
If you have concerns about the food handling practices or hygiene of a food premises within Bayside please clearly detail what you have experienced and provide photos where possible.
If you believe you have suffered a food borne illness (food poisoning) from consuming food from a premises within Bayside please detail the following in your request:
- What is the meal that is suspected.
- Do you have any leftovers that could be tested. Left over food needs to be in its original condition and refrigerated to provide a meaningful result.
- Date and time consumed.
- What symptoms were experienced.
- How many people were affected and was there sharing of the suspected meal.
- Did anyone require medical attention and was there any testing conducted to confirm food poisoning?
Faecal test kits will also be offered by Council, should requestor's want to participate, and help determine if there is evidence of food poisoning.
Urgent food recalls
In the event of a urgent food recall, our Environmental Health Officers will receive notification from the Department of Health advising the nature of the urgent recall and any action to be taken.
Our Environmental Health Officers will:
- actively contact and/or check stores where the product is likely to be stored
- ensure stock has been removed to an area clearly designated for recalled goods, and
- seize stock if necessary or as requested.
To find out about current food recalls, visit the Food Standards website.
Community group food fundraising information
Community groups, individuals, charities and other not-for-profit groups often hold food fundraisers such as sausage sizzles, cake stalls, fairs, and fêtes. Under the Victorian Food Act 1984 (Food Act), these activities require registration or notification to council. You can do this using FoodTrader.
For information to plan your temporary food event or community group fundraiser please see the community group fundraisers website.
Planning a cake stalls or sausage sizzles?
For information about keeping food safe at your cake stall or sausage sizzle, please go to the Health Vic website.
Free online food handler program - DoFoodSafely
A free online learning program to support the safe food handling in commercial food settings is available on the Department of Health website.
Food allergens and intolerances
Food allergens and intolerances are increasing in Australia, affecting 1 in every 5 people. Find out more with our fact sheet.