Auckland man who illegally killed and sold pigs fined $8,000
An Auckland man who illegally killed and sold pigs and a chicken has been fined $8,000.
New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) is sharing simple food safety tips for Kiwis to follow over the summer.
NZFS deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle says half of the foodborne illnesses in New Zealand originate in the home.
“Following good food safety practices is an important way to keep friends and family from getting sick,” Arbuckle says.
“Most of this can be avoided by taking some simple steps to keep safe, including washing your hands, keeping your prep space clean, taking extra care with handling raw chicken, cooking food thoroughly and keeping it cool if you’re on the go,” he says.
Campylobacter is the most reported cause of foodborne illness in New Zealand with approximately 6,000 reported cases annually.
Rates of illness can spike over summer, usually associated with preparing and consuming poultry at home.
However, NZFS says New Zealand’s rates of illness from Campylobacter have reduced significantly since 2006 due to efforts by the poultry industry and major retailers as well as better consumer awareness.
“It’s especially important that food safety is top of mind when you’re cooking for your frail older, pregnant, very young and immune-compromised whanau, as the consequences for them from getting sick from food can be devastating,” Arbuckle says.
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