Guarujá Summer Operation Inspects Beach Kiosks

The Health Surveillance of Guarujá has initiated the Summer Operation, a comprehensive inspection campaign targeting food carts and kiosks along the city's beaches. The primary objective is to guarantee that all food and beverages sold to tourists and beachgoers adhere to strict hygiene and food safety regulations. These inspections are carried out unexpectedly to ensure an accurate assessment of daily operations.

Agents are specifically evaluating several critical aspects of food service. Their focus includes the proper storage and handling of food items, the personal hygiene of the vendors, and the cleanliness of the utensils used. Additionally, the origin of the ice used in beverages and food preparations is receiving special scrutiny. The operation covers the main beaches in the region, ensuring widespread compliance.

The initiative officially began at Guaiúba beach on the previous Thursday, the 18th. It has since moved to cover Tombo and Astúrias beaches. The inspection schedule includes upcoming visits to Pitangueiras, Enseada, Pernambuco, and Perequê. In total, hundreds of carts and 67 kiosks along the coastline are set to be inspected.

The inspection process covers two main categories: food safety and legislative compliance. Regarding food safety, agents verify the conditioning, handling, and sanitization of food. They also check the cleanliness of the handlers' hands and the general hygiene of snacks, portions, and delicacies. A major point of concern is the provenance of the ice, which is frequently used in drinks and food.

Regarding legislative compliance, the inspectors verify:

• The required documentation for operation.
• The specific Health Surveillance License.
• Adequate waste disposal, ensuring trash is bagged and placed in appropriate locations.
• The management of residues produced by the activity and by customers.

During the inspections, 20 establishments were found to have irregularities. These businesses received notices of infraction and have a set deadline to regularize their situation. The operation maintains an educational and preventive character, but the presence of sanitary irregularities can lead to administrative penalties. These penalties, as stipulated by law, range from warnings and fines to the total interdiction of the establishment, depending on the severity of the infraction.

Special attention is being directed toward the provenance of ice used by vendors. Inspectors are carefully verifying if the ice comes from authorized manufacturers, if it is produced with potable water, and if it is stored and handled correctly. This measure is essential for preventing public health risks, as ice is placed directly into beverages and foods consumed by beachgoers.

The concern stems from the potential use of ice produced by clandestine factories that might utilize non-potable water, posing health risks to the public. The Director of Health Surveillance, Marco Chacon, emphasized this specific concern. In a statement regarding the operation, he noted the necessity of using safe water sources for ice production.

Marco Chacon stated: "The ice must be made with mineral, potable water, free of microorganisms." This focus ensures that the ice added to drinks does not become a vector for illness during the busy summer season.

The Summer Operation represents a significant effort by the Health Surveillance of Guarujá to protect public health during the peak tourist season. By inspecting hundreds of vendors, the agency aims to enforce standards that prevent foodborne illnesses. The proactive approach of checking ice origins and handling procedures highlights the thoroughness of the campaign.

While the operation is currently educational, the threat of fines or closure serves as a strong deterrent against negligence. As inspections continue across the remaining targeted beaches, vendors are urged to maintain high standards of hygiene and documentation. This ensures a safe environment for both residents and visitors enjoying the summer in Guarujá.