DHSS Press Release |
Date: October 16, 2003 DHSS-110-2003 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Karryl McManus, Deputy Secretary (302) 255-9047, Pager (302) 247-2116 |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOTE: This page is for informational purposes only and dated material (e.g. temporary websites) may not be available
GOVERNOR TO ANNOUNCE NEW FOOD SAFETY AWARD
Governor Ruth Ann Minner will promote greater awareness of food safety issues Oct. 20 when she announces a new award for food safety excellence at the Delaware Retail Food Safety Conference hosted by Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) and the Delaware Food Safety Council (DFSC). Governor Minner will address nearly 250 attendees from the food service industry at 10:30 a.m. in the Dover Downs Hotel and Conference Center's ballroom.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate 76 million cases of foodborne illness each year that result in 323,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths, but many cases of foodborne illness go unreported. In 2002, the Division of Public Health received reports of over 800 cases of foodborne illness in Delaware. The estimated cost of foodborne illness nationwide is $6.5 billion annually, according to the CDC.
DFSC sponsors the award, which will be presented annually. The award will be available to licensed restaurants, vendors, institutions and grocers who display conscientious and committed effort to provide safe, ready-to-eat foods to consumers while reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
"This award will further encourage food establishments to consistently meet the requirements of Delaware's food code and to reduce the risk of consumers contracting foodborne illness," said Geraldine Gillespie, DFSC Chair.
Beginning at the Oct. 20 conference, the DFSC will accept nominations for persons-in-charge of retail food establishments. Anyone can make a nomination. The DFSC will choose winners from each county and recognize nominees at the 2004 conference. Nomination forms will be provided at the conference and can also be obtained from DPH's Office of Food Protection, (302) 744-4546 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The conference takes place from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and includes a continental breakfast. Registration for the food service industry is free and begins at 7:30 a.m. Advance registration is available at www.state.de.us/dhss/dph/hsp/hspnews.htm or call DPH's Office of Food Protection at (302) 744-4546. Space is limited so register early.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
