Watchdog orders stricter checks for food

Shanghai's market watchdog has ordered stricter supervision and management of food operation safety in summer and autumn seasons.

In a notice issued on Monday, the Shanghai Administration for Market Regulation warns of a potential increase in food poisoning and food safety problems as temperatures rise. 

Businesses involved in high-risk foods such as uncooked aquatic products, meat products, cold dishes and cakes will be particularly targeted in inspections, and training in group meal delivery units, group canteens, banquet venues and group meal venues in the countryside will be enhanced, the administration said.

Group meal delivery units and group canteens found operating beyond their registered scope, and eateries supplying banned foods such as ark clams and seasonal banned foods such as liquor-saturated shrimp and crab will be cracked down on, the administration said.

Food sales venues and catering businesses will also face strict punishments for cooking food with raw materials from unknown sources.

Inspections will include raw material purchases, food processing and storage, disinfection and personnel, the administration said.

Inspections will also be beefed up on delicatessens and businesses selling fresh juice, and overnight delis are banned from sales, the administration said.

Authorities will issue risk warnings, consumption tips and operation guidelines to raise the public’s awareness of food safety, the administration said.