Elevating Food Safety Standards in Oaxaca: A New Era for Market Vendors

In a meaningful move too bolster public health and enhance the gastronomic experience for both locals and tourists, the Oaxaca Directorate of Health Regulation and Health Promotion Services (SSO) has awarded 220 hygiene certifications to vendors at the iconic November 20th Market in Oaxaca de Juárez. This initiative underscores a commitment to food safety and quality, aligning with the stringent requirements of the Official Mexican Standard NOM-251.

This certification programme is part of a broader strategy to ensure that food handling practices meet the highest standards, minimizing health risks and promoting a safe and enjoyable culinary surroundings. The training encompasses crucial aspects of food management, including proper washing, disinfection, storage, and personal hygiene.

statewide Training Initiative: A Commitment to Public Health

The certification of market vendors is just one facet of a larger, statewide effort to improve food safety. As the beginning of the year, nearly 4,000 individuals across Oaxaca have participated in training programs focused on hygienic food and beverage handling. This widespread engagement reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding public health and fostering consumer confidence.

According to recent data from the World Health Association (WHO), foodborne illnesses affect an estimated 600 million people worldwide each year, highlighting the critical importance of robust food safety measures. Oaxaca’s commitment to training and certification demonstrates a dedication to mitigating these risks and protecting its citizens and visitors.

Training Details and Accessibility

These essential courses, valid for one year, are offered continuously, ensuring that food handlers remain up-to-date on the latest best practices. Individuals interested in participating can attend training sessions in Oaxaca de Juárez, located on Colon Street number 628, Centro Centro, every Monday and Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. Similar training opportunities are also available in the state’s six health jurisdictions, making it accessible to a wide range of food service professionals.

For businesses seeking to train their entire staff, the Directorate of Regulation and health Promotion offers customized courses at their facilities. To request this service, companies must submit a formal letter specifying their interest, preferred dates (Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.), and contact information. The request must also include a payment receipt obtained through the Oaxaca State Finance Secretariat website (www.finanzaaxaca.gob.mx) and a clear photographic list of all participants, with their full names printed on the back.

Quotes on the Importance of Food Safety

Andrea Ramón García, director of the SSO unit, emphasized the importance of certified personnel in ensuring food safety:

having certified personnel is essential to ensure that businesses offer safe and high quality products, avoiding diseases.
Andrea Ramón García, Oaxaca Directorate of Health Regulation and Health Promotion services

Ramón García also highlighted the program’s role in enhancing food security:

These activities are a watershed to optimize the quality of the products and avoid health risks, thus contributing to food security.
Andrea Ramón García, Oaxaca Directorate of Health Regulation and Health Promotion Services

Contact Information

For further details about the food safety training programs, interested parties can contact the Oaxaca Directorate of Health Regulation and Health Promotion Services at 951 51 4 47 48 and 951 51 6 66 15 during office hours (Monday to Friday). Inquiries can also be sent via email to Drfs.manjo.higienico.alim@gmail.com.