KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu Health Department issued 22 notices to food traders for various offences during the first three days of Ramadan.
State Health director Datuk Dr Kasemani Embong said 840 Ramadan bazaar stalls were inspected across the state and RM2,800 in compound fines were imposed.
She said that the offences included employing workers without anti-typhoid vaccinations, non-compliance with food handler attire, and poor personal hygiene among food handlers.
"In these three days, we have also randomly collected 22 out of 64 planned samples for analysis to ensure compliance with the Food Act 1983 and its regulations.
"Samples taken include 'ayam masak merah', 'nasi kerabu', 'ayam kerutuk', 'gulai terung', and 'ayam paprik'," she said in a statement on Thursday (March 6).
Meanwhile, Dr Kasemani also said that the department had formed 102 teams comprising 410 enforcement personnel to carry out monitoring duties at this year's Ramadan bazaars.
According to her, a total of 4,351 Ramadan bazaar stalls have been registered with local authorities and private entities at 70 locations statewide this year.
"Apart from Ramadan bazaars, monitoring will also continue at supermarkets, grocery shops, and other raw material suppliers.
"The state Health Department has also introduced a QR code at Ramadan bazaars to gather information and feedback from the public regarding hygiene standards," she noted.
She reminded traders to always comply with regulations and practise proper food hygiene.
The public is also advised to adopt the "observe and choose" approach before making any purchases at Ramadan bazaars or shops. – Bernama
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