New food safety project launched in Baalbek & Hermel

A new food safety project has kicked off this week in the Baalbaq - Hermel region with the support of a team of specialists trained in HACCP (Hazard Analysis &Critical Control Point food safety management system) and targeting various business of the area. The initiative which is a pilot for the local community sectors will be implemented by the Municipality of Baalbek in collaboration with 6 federations representing, Baalbaq, West Baalbaq, North Baalbek, East Baalbaq, Al Shallal and Hermel. The project protocol was signed between the said unions, the Islamic Health Society and Community Action Society. The number of establishments which will be targeted, based on a survey, comprises some 4500 food establishments, including bakeries, restaurants, meat shops, slaughter houses, fish markets and food stores. The implementation of the program commences with the organization of guidance and orientation workshops for food company owners on how to attain the best conditions for their facilities in terms of hygiene, tool disinfection and safety, storage, sources and production dates of food products. Qualified food establishments are expected to receive an ISO certificate. To be noted, that the project will have an annual budget of USD 220 thousand that will largely be raised from the member federations. (As Safir, 11 July 2015)