What does OMEGA do about food safety?

In an effort to meet customer demand and increase product offerings, more and more OMEGA member grocers and convenience stores are providing in-store food service.  Items offered range from prepared deli sandwiches and ice cream to in-store restaurants. While customers enjoy the convenience and enhanced products, providing food service for the public comes with major responsibilities.  First and foremost is the issue of food safety.   OMEGA has made a commitment to food-safety training.  Through an innovative partnership between the West Virginia Office of Hospitality Education and Training and the National Restaurant Association's Education Foundation, West Virginia members are being trained and certified in all aspects of food safety.  Following the National Restaurant Association's SafeServ Training Program, members receive education on proper methods for handling, receiving, storing, preparing and serving food. Food safety is an ongoing concern among OMEGA members, and the SafeServ program is offered on an annual basis. Additionally, OMEGA member grocers and convenience stores work closely with local and state health departments on food safety and sanitation. As much as the process for the production and distribution of foods is beyond the direct reach of the industry, the task of establishing and enforcing standards that effectively ensure the ultimate safety of our nation's food supply falls to the federal and state governments. To this end, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been given jurisdiction over red meat, poultry and egg products, while most other food items fall under the purview of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has developed the Model Food Code for states to use in their regulation of retail food sales. Other agencies, such as the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Customs Service, also have a portion of the federal role. To learn more about the OMEGA Food Safety Program or the federal government's role in food safety, contact Jan Vineyard at (304) 343-5500.

 

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