Developing a government strategy to meet international standards of food safety across the hospitality industry

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify international best practice regarding food safety management across the food chain, with particular reference to hospitality businesses. It looks at the role of government strategy in the pursuit of a flexible approach that can be adapted and adopted by a diverse range of businesses. It is the first article in a Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes theme issue, presenting a comprehensive government strategy for improving food safety management standards across the hospitality industry. Design/methodology/approach – A summary of key literature is presented alongside an in-depth analysis of international guidance for governments attempting to promote the uptake of hazard analysis critical control point-based food safety management systems. It is set within the context of recent Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority initiatives. Findings – The management of food safety across all sectors of the food industry and prevention of food-borne diseases represent a major challenge worldwide. International guidance for governments has been produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), but few governments have the resources to implement this effectively. Within Abu Dhabi, a four-year project was launched to support the hospitality sector in meeting international best practice standards, following guidance from FAO and extensive international benchmarking. Originality/value – This article brings together a theoretical and practical discussion of how the government can facilitate international food safety standards within the hospitality industry, with a unique insight into a practical application of strategy development and implementation at government level. It will be of value to practitioners, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders involved in the food industry.