From Saturday 7 to Saturday 14 November, Australian Food Safety Week encourages us to think about how we prepare food and the simple steps we can take to protect ourselves, our families and our community from food-borne illness.

Why does it matter?

Raw and undercooked foods can contain harmful bacteria. Poultry, minced meat, eggs and seafood can be higher risk if they are not handled or cooked correctly.

Unsafe food doesn’t always look, smell or taste different, making safe preparation and cooking important.

Led by the Food Safety Information Council, Food Safety Week helps people understand food safety risks and how to reduce them.

Keeping our community safe

Local café owner Elinor Mofkadi from Murrumbeena Pantry says food safety is about protecting the people we share food with.

“Food is where community happens — Birthdays parties, Bar Mitzvah, funerals, Sunday/Saturday catch-ups with friends and family. When something goes wrong with food safety, it doesn't just affect one person, it can affect a whole gathering, a whole family. Businesses like ours have a responsibility to get it right.”

“Being five-star rated two years in a row isn't luck — it's proof our food safety habits are consistent, not just occasional.”

Elinor Mofkadi, owner and manager, Murrumbeena Pantry

Our Environmental Health Officers work with local food businesses throughout the year, registering and inspecting businesses, investigating complaints and helping operators identify and reduce potential risks.

Food safety is just as important at home. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, hosting friends or bringing a plate to a community event:

• keep raw food separate from ready-to-eat food
• wash your hands and food preparation surfaces regularly
• cook foods thoroughly, especially meat, poultry and eggs.

A few simple precautions can help keep our community safe and healthy.

Find out more

For more information about Australian Food Safety Week 2026 and practical food safety advice, visit the Food Safety Information Council website at www.foodsafety.asn.au