During Carnival season, especially during the parades, many people take the opportunity to sell food on the streets, both before, during, and after the events. Yvette Geerman, Head of the Food Hygiene and Inspection Department at DVG, announced that the department will be conducting inspections throughout the entire Carnival season, including checks on food vendors along the parade routes. These checks will cover all types of food vendors, including those with kiosks and those selling food on carts, such as pizza vendors. The regulations are clear and apply to all vendors.
Geerman emphasized that all food vendors, whether serving pastries or other items, must comply with the regulations outlined by law. This includes having a valid health certificate, which is required for all food vendors. She also stressed the importance of ensuring that food is safe for consumption, free from harmful bacteria.
Food vendors must also comply with hygiene standards to ensure the quality of their food, including maintaining appropriate temperatures for both food and beverages. Vendors should also ensure they have enough ice to keep products cold and maintain proper temperature control for hot food.
Geerman highlighted the importance of personal hygiene for food vendors. This includes washing hands with soap and clean water every time it’s necessary. In addition, vendors must wear clean clothing, and if they have any cuts or injuries on their hands, they must cover them with a bandage. Proper hygiene practices, including the use of gloves, must be followed, and gloves should be changed as needed.
If a vendor does not have a valid health certificate, they will be asked to cease selling, and the location will be closed by DVG. However, vendors with valid health certificates will be allowed to continue selling food.
Geerman also reminded both food vendors and Carnival-goers to be cautious and ensure the food they consume is safe to avoid any health risks.
