SUPPORT is growing for the amendment of the Protection of Public Health (Amendment) Bill, 2024 under Section 23 Subsection (3), which aims to ban animals or pets from entering food premises, said Meluan assemblyman Rolland Duat Jubin.
There were two reasons for endorsing it.
Firstly, regarding health concerns, preventing animals from accessing areas where food is prepared, handled, and stored is critical to avoiding potential contamination.
“Animals can carry harmful bacteria, parasites, and pathogens, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli.
“Additionally, the presence of animals may trigger allergies or sensitivities in certain individuals, exacerbating health risks,” said Rolland.
The second reason pertains to safety issues. According to him, animals in food premises can disrupt the dining experience and pose safety hazards for customers.
“Not all animals are well-behaved or trained, leading to potential disturbances, aggressive behaviour, and accidents.
“Moreover, the waste deposition or shedding of animals can compromise the cleanliness of the premises, creating unsanitary conditions,” he added.
