Northern Health has been made aware of an unauthorized food processor based in Port Clements processing and selling candy and possibly other food products from an unapproved and uninspected kitchen.
Northern Health has issued an order to Skaajaagid Candy to cease sales of all food products immediately. It is believed that Skaajaagid Candy has been selling food products at local markets in communities across Haida Gwaii as well as online. Northern Health is advising residents to dispose of any food products purchased from Skaajaagid Candy immediately, due to the possible risk of contamination.
Under the BC Food Premises Regulation, a food premises refers to any place where food intended for public consumption is offered for sale, supplied, handled, prepared, packaged, displayed, served, processed, stored, transported or dispensed. Anyone wishing to operate a food premises must apply with any reasonable information to the health officer at the Environmental Services of the local Health Protection Office prior to construction or operation to receive an operating permit or health approvals. The permitting and approval process is designed to ensure anyone preparing food for public consumption is doing so in an environment and manner that meets food safety standards.
Whenever Northern Health receives a complaint or becomes aware of someone producing food for public consumption in an unapproved location, Northern Health Environmental Health Officers follow up with individuals to achieve compliance with relevant regulations.
For further information on the advisory please contact Northern Health Public Health Protection 250-565-7322 or via email at php@northernhealth.ca.