Requiring the use of chillers for frozen goods by vendors, mulled

The local legislature passed on first reading an ordinance requiring all retailers of fresh meat, fish or processed food products sold as frozen goods in the city to place their merchandise in display cases, chillers or freezers and providing penalties therefor.

If finally approved, the proposed measure, authored by councilor Elaine Sembrano, shall cover all businesses in the city licensed as retailers of fresh meat, fish or processed food products sold as frozen goods, including stalls in the Baguio city public market and barangay satellite markets.

“No retailer or vendor shall be allowed to sell or peddle his products identified in this ordinance in open air exposed to the elements, pests, contaminants and possible agents of contamination. Fresh meat or fish shall be displayed in enclosed glass or transparent cases or in chillers. Processed food products sold as frozen goods shall be put in freezers at all times,” it states.

The ordinance prohibits color enhancing lighting materials and only bulbs emitting white light, if necessary to be installed in any enclosed glass or transparent case, shall be used so as not to alter the appearance of the products in display.

“Display cases shall be made of stainless steel, glass, or water and heat resistant materials for easy cleaning and maintenance, except wooden materials, to avoid the growth of fungi and other contaminants due to the water retention properties of wood,” it states.

The measure directs business or stall owners or their attendants to always maintain a sanitary and clean selling area and premises, keeping the floor and countertops dry. It also requires the use of apron, haircap and sanitary gloves for all sales crew.

The ordinance tasks the city health services office (CHSO) to enforce and monitor compliance of its provisions pursuant to the Sanitation Code of the Philippines. The Baguio City Market Authority with respect to the public market and satellite markets shall render the necessary assistance to the CHSO to facilitate the conduct of inspection and monitoring activities.

Violation of the proposed ordinance’s provisions shall be subject to the following fines and penalties: Reprimand for the first offense; P3,000 fine, second offense; P5,000 fine and confiscation of goods, third offense; and cancellation or non-renewal of business permit or lease contract for public or satellite market stall lessees, for the fourth offense.-gaby keith and rebecca tial (pio intern)

The City Government of Baguio, Official Website