Ramada Colombo certified ‘A’ for food handling

Wednesday, 26 June 2013 00:05 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ramada Colombo recently won the ‘A’ Grade Certificate of Commendation in recognition of excellence in cleanliness and food hygiene. This honour was awarded by Dr. Pradeep Kariyawasam, the Chief Medical Officer of Health for the Food Authority, City of Colombo. As food hygiene considerations have taken centre stage in hospitality in recent years, this certification is clearly very timely. Under the stringent procedure of this certification, each and every process in food management is evaluated. The mechanisms utilised begin with suppliers where random samples of items from spices to meats are analysed.

Within the hotel, the inspection is rigorous – appropriate storage of ingredients, utensils and equipment utilised in preparation, the actual techniques of cooking and the final storage of the completed food item are all scrutinised in detail. Aspects such as cleaning and disinfection of food handling areas, appropriate ventilation, layout and lighting also play an important role. Thrice yearly, all food handlers are required to take a thorough medical test. At the core of all these processes lies the key element – a team that is well aware and dedicated to food safety management. At Ramada Colombo, from the janitors who ensure sparkling clean surroundings, to the chefs who whip up great recipes and the steward who finally presents a completed dish to the guest, much pride is taken at every step of the channel. The need to renew such certifications annually ensures a diligent process is in place – Ramada Colombo meets all requirements of random monthly tests conducted by Public Health Inspectors. The hotel also maintains routine documentation of all areas related to food safety. As today’s consumer becomes more conversant on varied aspects of a service, hotels take on an even more robust push to ensure increasingly high standards of hygiene are met. Ramada Colombo’s pledge toward greater guest satisfaction is further reiterated by this certification.