GA-FDD Director appeals for “smart shopping” during festive season

Dr. Marlan Cole, Director of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) in
a recent statement has appealed to consumers to be on the alert and exercise caution when
purchasing food during the Christmas season
Dr. Cole said that persons must inspect all products before purchasing and ensure they are
properly labelled in English. The Food and Drug Department Director noted that persons are
also advised to check for ‘best before’ or expiry dates and refrain from purchasing food items
that are beyond those dates or products without a date mark. He said that consumers must also
check canned products for dents, rusting and bulging. Cole stressed that pParticular attention
must be placed on food items that are offered for sale at a significantly reduced price. He added
that ready to eat foods must also be stored at the appropriate temperatures before purchase. The
Director stressed that hot foods must be served hot and cold foods served cold.

He disclosed that his department, along with the members of the National Food Safety and
Control Committee, continues to monitor activities regarding the trade of substandard items that
fall under the supervision of the GA-FDD. Director Cole declared that he is encouraging
consumers to be on high alert, thus ensuring value for money is obtained when shopping and
avoid food poisoning.
He urged persons to engage the Environmental Health Department in their neighborhood or the
GA-FDD, in an effort to report any substandard food seen on our local market or offered for sale
by vendors. Dr. Cole added that reports could be made via telephone number – 222-8857(9) or
visit the Government Analyst- Food and Drug Department’s Facebook page.