By the end of this module, you will understand the relevant food safety standards that apply to the safe handling of food, the requirements for implementing a food safety program to manage any risks relating to food safety hazards and the relevant legislation that applies to food handling in Australia and its states and territories.
In this module, you will learn about:
- the five (5) food safety standards within The Australia New Zealand Food Services Code, and how they apply to food businesses and early childhood services in relation to food handling, preparation and serving
- various legislation that regulates food-handling businesses
- the importance of hygiene and cleanliness on a personal level and in food preparation areas, and
- ways to minimise the risk of food-borne illnesses.
Why learn about food safety in early childhood?
Everyone working within an early childhood education and care (ECEC) environment has a responsibility to keep food safe, regardless of whether food is cooked on-site by a chef or cook, delivered by a catering company or brought in by families. Correct food safety practices are integral to providing safe food for children, and it is mandated by the National Quality Standard (NQS) Quality Area 2: Children’s Health and Safety.
This 3-minute video published by ACECQA explains the importance of Quality Area 2, Children’s Health and Safety in an education and care service:
