Aksu Kebab Manufacturing was fined $17,000 and ordered to pay court costs in the Brisbane Magistrates Court for breaching section 79 of the Food Production (Safety) Act 2000.

Aksu Kebab Manufacturing pleaded guilty for operating without an accreditation with Safe Food Production Queensland (SFPQ) under the Food Production (Safety) Act 2000.

The prosecution against Aksu Kebab Manufacturing was carried out in response to an investigation conducted by the Queensland Government’s food regulatory agency, Safe Food Production Queensland (SFPQ). 

SFPQ’s General Manager, Phil Pond said that businesses operating without an accreditation were putting people at risk.

“Food safety is of critical importance to consumers. When businesses evade these systems it puts consumers and the rest of the industry at risk”.

“This prosecution helps demonstrate the seriousness of food safety breaches and sends a clear message that food safety responsibilities must be taken seriously.”

Businesses that produce, process, transport and store meat products must be accredited with SFPQ to ensure the reliability and safety of the primary production and processing end of the food chain.

SFPQ officers had regular contact with Aksu Kebab Manufacturing in an effort to encourage the business to become accredited and to comply with the requirements of Safe Food Production Queensland’s Meat Food Safety Scheme.

A conviction was recorded.

Contact SFPQ on 1800 300 815 or visit the web site www.safefood.qld.gov.au for more information.

16 July 2009 - Media inquiries: Melanie Taylor, Marketing and Communications Manager 07 3253 9823.