Food 

Food Hygiene and Food Poisoning 

Food Poisoning 

Food poisoning occurs when food is consumed that has been contaminated with microorganisms (pathogens), toxins, or chemicals. Bacteria are the most common cause of food poisoning. However, it is important to note that many stomach viruses can cause similar symptoms and are highly contagious.

For more information, please refer to Food poisoning (healthywa.wa.gov.au).  

Complaints 

Environmental Health Officers investigate food poisoning incidents and complaints relating to food business hygiene where the food business is located within the City of Nedlands.

Lodging a Food Hygiene Complaint 

If you have concerns regarding the hygiene standards of a food business, please complete the Food Business Hygiene Complaint Form and submit it via the button below.

Submit Food Hygiene Complaint Form

Lodging a Food Poisoning Complaint 

If you believe you may have acquired food poisoning from a food premises located within the City’s jurisdiction, please follow the steps below:

  1. Go to your doctor - Individuals who suspect food poisoning should consult a medical practitioner as soon as possible and request a faecal sample for laboratory analysis. Sample testing assists in identifying the food source responsible for the illness.
  2. Food consumption recall - As symptoms of food poisoning may take several days to appear, it is important that, when reporting an incident, you think back to all foods and drinks consumed in the three days before you became unwell. Please also indicate whether the food was prepared or eaten at home or at another location. In particular, advise whether you consumed any of the following:
      • Premade salads 
      • Sushi or similar products containing cooked and cooled rice 
      • Foods that have previously been cooked and then reheated 
      • Products that may contain raw egg (e.g. fresh mayonnaise or sauces) 
      • Meats particularly chicken that may not have been cooked thoroughly 
      • Unpasteurised milk or unpasteurised milk products
      • Raw shellfish 
  1. Food samples - Any remaining suspect food that has been immediately covered and refrigerated (at 5°C or below) or frozen, until collected by City’s Environmental Health staff for analysis. 
  1. Proof of purchase - Any food packages, receipts or other evidence that have been retained, which identify the product and where it was purchased from. 
  2. Travel and contact with animals - It is also important to note if you have recently travelled overseas, had any contact with individuals that may have had similar gastroenteritis symptoms or had any recent contact with wild animals or birds or domestic puppies or kittens. 
  3. Lodge your complaint with the City- To report a food poisoning incident please complete the Food Poisoning Complaint Form and submit it via the button below. 

Submit Food Poisoning Complaint Form