Consumer Complaints - Food Poisoning

The NSW Food Authority commenced in April 2004 as a single agency throughout the State in regard to food safety matters. The NSW Food Authority is the agency for the receipt of all complaints concerning alleged food poisoning. A consumer helpline 1300 552 406 has been established to receive such calls. Council staff are also available to investigate a broad range of consumer complaints or concerns about a particular food premises or activity.

All complaints are dealt with confidentially and the complainant's name and address/telephone number are sought either to provide feedback to the complainant or clarify the information initially provided.

Any such complaints can be made to Council's Environmental Health Unit and Customer Services Unit on 9840 9840 or by attending Council's offices at 16 Memorial Avenue, Merrylands.

Complaints may range from:

• Foreign objects in food such as stones, hair, glass, insects, etc
• Mouldy or rotten foods
• Swollen cans or products which are past their use by date
• Poor food handling practices
• Pests or animals in kitchens or dining areas
• Unclean conditions

It should be noted that Council's role is to implement the relevant food laws in a fair and reasonable manner. In respect of complaints this service does not extend to seeking compensation for food or any personal injury or to providing legal advice.