Food safety is a mandatory program for Ontario’s public health units under the Ontario Public Health Standards. Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) works to prevent and reduce foodborne illness in the community by:
- Conducting routine and complaint-based inspections of food premises
- Coordinating food handler training and certification
- Educating people about food safety at home, school and work
- Analyzing data about foodborne illness in Oxford County, Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas
- Investigating and responding to outbreaks of foodborne illness, unsafe food handling practices, food recalls, etc.
- Providing expertise for food-related issues arising from floods, fires, power outages and other situations that may affect food safety
Are you planning to sell food in our region? Watch this video to learn the rules for selling prepared foods.
Food Recalls
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issues public advisories for all food products where consumption of the food could cause serious health consequences.
When the CFIA becomes aware of a potential hazard related with a food product, it is recalled from the marketplace and a public warning is issued. Reasons for food recalls include but are not limited to:
- Products contain undeclared allergens; and/or
- Physical, biological, or chemical contamination
For the most recent Food Recall Warnings please visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) or call 1-800-442-2342.
Food Allergies
There are 10 substances which are most frequently linked with food allergies and allergic-type reactions, which include:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Mustard
- Peanuts
- Sesame
- Soy
- Seafood (including shellfish and crustaceans)
- Sulphites
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
References:
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency. (2014). Food Allergies and Allergen Labelling - Information for Consumers
- Health Canada: Food and Nutrition: Food Allergies
Report A Food Safety Complaint
Click the button below to fill out a food safety complaint form.
SUBMIT FOOD SAFETY COMPLAINT