Risk assessment of Food Safety Schemes

Assessing risk before regulating

Under the Food Act 2003, the Food Authority is required to conduct a risk assessment before the introduction of a new food safety scheme. These schemes are how food safety requirements are put in place for specific food industries in NSW.

The risk assessment examines what hazards, such as bacteria or chemical residues, might be present with different foods. It provides the scientific data to guide development of food safety regulations and requirements that assist in reducing illness.

The Food Authority has introduced schemes for certain businesses handling meat, dairy, plant products, seafood, eggs & egg products and those serving food to certain groups of vulnerable persons.

In 2008–2009 the Food Authority reviewed the risk assessment for each food safety scheme to underpin the development of Food Regulation 2010.