PROHIBITION OF ANIMALS IN FOOD PREMISES IN TERMS OF REGULATION 638 OF 22 JUNE 2018 MADE IN TERMS OF THE FOOD STUFFS COSMETICS & DISINFECTANTS ACT,1972 (ACT.54 OF 1972).
This media statement servers to inform and remind all owners and or persons in charge of food premises that:
“In accordance with Regulation 10(10) of the REGULATIONS GOVERNING GENERAL HYGIENE REQUIREMENTS FOR FOOD PREMISES, THE TRANSPORT OF FOOD AND RELATED MATTERS R 638 OF 22 JUNE 2018, a person in charge of food premises must ensure that “an animal, subject to the provisions of any law, is not kept or permitted in a room or area where food is handled, except that-
(a) A guide or service dog accompanying a person with a disability may be
permitted in the sales or serving area of the food premises;
(b) Fish, molluscs or crustaceans may be kept alive until prepared for consumption
The phenomenon of food establishments allowing animals (dogs in particular) in/on food premises has become almost common course and some food establishments (restaurants etc.) even advertise as being “pet friendly”. “No provision is made to allow eateries to declare themselves as a ‘dog-friendly’ restaurant”.
The definition of “handle” includes manufacture, process, produce, pack, prepare, keep, offer, store, transport or display for sale or for serving and “handling” has corresponding meaning.
Thus, any area where food is served whether outdoors or not are considered an area where animals are not allowed.
It is thus an offence in terms of regulation 15 of the Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, The Transport of Food and Related Matters R 638 of 22 June 2018 and carries an Admission of Guilt (AG) fine of R2000 and all concerned are hereby directed to refrain from this practice.
Inspectors from the Cape Winelands District Municipality’s: Municipal Health Services Division will be monitoring this situation and will enforce these regulations throughout the Cape Winelands District.
The person in charge of such premises will be held accountable for any such contraventions.
Proprietors are encouraged to contact the Municipal Health Services division of the Cape Winelands District Municipality should any clarity be required in respect of this matter.
Patrons/Members of the public are equally encouraged to bring such incidences to the attention of the respective Municipal Health Services offices i.e.
• Stellenbosch: 021-8885800
• Drakenstein: 021-8703200
• Breede Valley: 023-3482300
• Witzenberg: 023-3168400/023-3123111
• Langeberg: 023-6268300/023-6263191
Photo: EHP Fernando Kelly from CWDM inspecting a food premises.