THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas trained street food vendors in Tanauan City on food safety with the aim of ensuring food safety and hygiene practices among vendors to protect public health and promote a clean and safe street food environment in the city held at Tanauan City Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office (CLDO), Poblacion 1, Tanauan City.
The training, organized by CLDO, was part of the city government Tanauan Street Food Vendors Assistance Program aimed at improving the quality of street food vending in the city and elevating the standards of food handling practices among vendors. By equipping vendors with proper knowledge and skills, the program seeks to enhance consumer confidence in the street food industry and boost economic opportunities for vendors.
The training covered basic food hygiene and food safety hazards. The discussion underscored the importance of strict compliance with food safety standards in the handling of food. Using their current practices as examples, the vendors were able to identify areas for improvement and learn how to implement food safety-compliant practices in their daily operations.
Common situations where street food vendors may unknowingly compromise food safety were discussed, such as cross-contamination, handwashing issues, non-wearing of personal protective equipment, and inadequate time and temperature control.
Additionally, they were reminded of the grave risks—from foodborne illness to possible legal liability and reputational damage—that could result from negligence in food safety protocols.
Mr. John Maico M. Hernandez, a member of the DOST-CALABARZON Food Safety Team, facilitated the training. He emphasized the importance of regular training and monitoring to ensure that street food vendors are consistently following proper food safety protocols. Mr. Hernandez also provided practical tips and guidelines on how vendors can improve their food handling practices to minimize risks and protect public health.
The CLDO Head, Ms. May Teresita R. Fidelino, thanked the DOST for their valuable assistance in conducting the training and reiterated the city government's commitment to prioritizing food safety in the community. She encouraged all street food vendors to apply the knowledge gained from the training to ensure the well-being of their customers and maintain a safe street food vending environment for everyone in the city.
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