Health Dept cracks down on temporary food vendors — starting right now

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Health Department has issued a notice of enforcement of all local health laws for all “temporary food vendors” at the Fagatogo Market Place, Litani’s Market in Nu’uuli, KS Mart and all roadside stands that sell food.

Pursuant to local laws on Food & Beverage Sanitation and Sanitation Rules, DoH’s Environmental Health Services Division noted that health laws are being enforced — effective immediately.

It says that all food sellers/ handlers are required to have valid health cards on them while operating food sales; wear masks during times of operation; and wear a hairnet/ cap/ hat to protect food/ food area from hair falling onto the food or into the food area.

Also required is the wearing of aprons, proper and clean clothes while operating food sales; wearing gloves when serving food to the public and also utilizing water or hand sanitizers; and food preparation/ sale area should be well kept and clean at all times during operations.

Furthermore, all food displays should be placed inside a display case, cooler or container to prevent the public from touching food. “No self serve,” said DoH, noting that failure to comply may lead to issuance of a citation, denying further food sales in the future and/ or temporary or permanent closure of the food site.

Friday is the day when many food vendors are at the Market Place, especially vendors selling Samoan cooked food — a popular food choice.

Roadside vendors selling cooked food have always been a concern raised by lawmakers, who have sought for DoH’s enforcement powers to be used to ensure the safety and health of the public.