477 food operators in Sarawak certified as BeSS holders — Dept
KUCHING: A total of 477 operators of food premises throughout Sarawak are holders of valid BeSS (Clean, Safe and Healthy) certificates.
Of this number, 319 operators have obtained their certificates this year, says Health Department Sarawak deputy director (food safety and quality) Mohd Jefri Crosssley.
According to him, that BeSS certification is a recognition given to food operators, meant to encourage the provision of safe and healthy food.
Generally, there are four main criteria to qualify for the certification – maintenance of clean premises, provision of safe food, provision of healthy food, and preparation of food in proper serving portions according to individual needs.
Mohd Jeferi adds that the BeSS also involves two components – food safety and quality, as well as nutritional components.
He stresses that to obtain this certification, food operators must comply with the conditions laid down for both of these components.
“The BeSS recognition will assure consumers that the (certified) restaurant serves clean, safe and healthy food in its premises.
“I would like to encourage all food operators in Sarawak to obtain the BeSS certification as we strive to improve the standard of food served in restaurants throughout Sarawak,” he spoke at the presentation of BeSS certificates here yesterday.
Mohd Jefri said the department had received good cooperation from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak ( Unimas) and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Kota Samarahan Campus regarding the certification. According to him, 35 food operators at both institutions have obtained the BeSS certificates.
He stressed that the responsibility of each BeSScertificate holder would be to maintain the cleanliness of their premises.
Those wishing to obtain further information about BeSS can contact the divisional or district Health Office, Sarawak Health Department, or to visit these websites – www.moh.spab.gov.my, or www.facebook.com/bkkmhq.
The BeSS recognition will assure consumers that the (certified) restaurant serves clean, safe and healthy food in its premises. Mohd Jefri Crosssley, Health Department Sarawak deputy director (food safety and quality)