CFT 
Understanding Australia’s Food Safety Standard 3.2.2A: Essential Compliance Tips for Businesses
If you’re managing a food business in Australia, you’re likely aware of the introduction of Food Safety Standard 3.2.2A, which became law in December 2022. This update to the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code brings significant changes to food safety practices, particularly for businesses handling unpackaged, ready-to-eat, and potentially hazardous foods. The deadline for compliance was December 8, 2023, for most food businesses. However, for a select group of businesses in New South Wales, the deadline has been extended to December 8, 2024.
This guide will walk you through the key components of Standard 3.2.2A and help you understand your obligations to ensure your business remains compliant.
The Importance of Food Safety Standard 3.2.2A
Food Safety Standard 3.2.2A represents a significant shift in the food safety landscape for businesses across Australia. The standard builds on the existing responsibilities under Standard 3.2.2 by introducing a mandatory Food Safety Management System (FSMS) that involves three key tools:
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Food Handler Training
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Food Safety Supervision
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Record-Keeping
Depending on your business category, you may be required to implement all three tools. This new standard is intended to reduce foodborne illnesses and ensure safe food handling across various sectors. It’s important to note that this standard exists alongside state and territory-specific legislation, so you must continue to comply with both.
NSW-Specific Information
Compliance Extension Until December 2024
While most food businesses in Australia have already complied with Standard 3.2.2A, certain businesses in New South Wales have been granted an extension, with a new compliance deadline of December 8, 2024. This extension applies to specific organisations, such as:
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School canteens
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Children’s services that provide food
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Supermarkets, greengrocers, and delis
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Coffee vendors serving food
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Correctional centres and boarding schools
If your business falls into one of these categories, you must ensure compliance by the extended deadline. This means that food handlers and supervisors in NSW need to undergo specific training to meet the updated requirements.
For businesses in NSW, CFT offers comprehensive NSW Food Safety Supervisor courses, which are tailored to the legal requirements set by the NSW Food Authority. This includes a NSW Food Safety Supervisor Certificate and a NSW Re-certification course for those needing to renew their Food Safety Supervisor certification. Visit our FAQ to understand more about the state’s specific requirements.
Who is Subject to Standard 3.2.2A?
Standard 3.2.2A applies to food businesses across Australia that manage unpackaged, ready-to-eat, and potentially hazardous foods just before they reach the consumer. These businesses are divided into two categories: Category One and Category Two, each with different levels of compliance requirements.
Examples of businesses affected by this standard include:
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Restaurants, cafes, and bars
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Hotels, casinos, and buffet restaurants
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Supermarkets and grocery stores
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Mobile food units and takeaway facilities
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Hospitals, aged care facilities, and childcare centres
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Petrol stations and prisons
If your business falls under the wholesale or manufacturing category, or operates as a charity, you may be exempt from these requirements.
Immediate Steps for Compliance
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Training Food Handlers
Ensure all employees involved in food handling undergo appropriate training. Standard 3.2.2A places stricter requirements on training, especially regarding allergen management. Check that your team is trained in:
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Safe food handling practices
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Preventing food contamination
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Cleaning and sanitising equipment and premises
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Maintaining personal hygiene
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Appointing a Food Safety Supervisor
All Category One and Category Two businesses must have at least one designated Food Safety Supervisor (FSS). This person must have up-to-date certification, ensuring they can effectively oversee food safety practices. You can complete FSS training with CFT through the NSW Food Safety Supervisor course. In NSW, supervisors must also have additional skills in egg safety and allergen management.
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Record-Keeping
Category One businesses must keep records of essential food handling activities, such as temperature monitoring and sanitisation schedules. These records must be kept for at least three months and be readily available for inspections.
STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Compliance Checklist for Your Business
To stay compliant with Standard 3.2.2A, here’s a simple checklist:
Step 1: Identify Your Business Category
Determine if your business is classified as Category One or Category Two and understand your specific obligations.
Step 2: Assess Staff Training
Ensure your food handlers and supervisors have current qualifications in line with the new food safety requirements.
Step 3: Appoint a Food Safety Supervisor
If you don’t already have one, appoint a certified FSS. Ensure their certification is up to date and covers all necessary training, including any state-specific requirements.
Step 4: Implement Record-Keeping Systems
For Category One businesses, develop a system for maintaining food handling records for at least three months.
By adhering to Food Safety Standard 3.2.2A, you’re not only ensuring legal compliance but also reinforcing your commitment to maintaining the highest food safety standards for your customers. If you’re based in NSW, make sure to act now and prepare for the December 8, 2024, deadline.
Visit CFT’s NSW Food Safety Supervisor course and NSW Re-certification course to get your team trained and compliant today. For more information on NSW-specific food safety laws, check out our NSW Food Safety Laws page.
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