The Ministry of Health has issued a new directive urging provincial and city governments to tighten food safety control on street food businesses, warning that violations such as uncovered food or direct hand contact with ready-to-eat items may now incur fines of up to $120.

The move comes in response to rising food poisoning incidents, particularly in residential areas, tourist zones, and at festivals. On February 9, the Ministry released official dispatch No. 848/BYT-ATTP, calling on local authorities to enhance monitoring of food safety at mobile food stalls and roadside eateries.

Deputy Minister Do Xuan Tuyen emphasized that street food refers to meals prepared and sold by vendors at public spaces, festivals, or mobile carts - typically consumed immediately without further cooking. While several localities have implemented safety measures, there remain significant gaps.

In popular food districts and tourist spots, improvements are evident. Vendors have begun using protective clothing and masks, while cooking areas are better organized and utensils kept clean - steps that contribute not only to hygiene but also to urban aesthetics.

However, the Ministry acknowledged persistent safety risks. Many smaller vendors and pushcarts still operate without clean water, proper waste disposal, or protective coverings for food. Some fail to wear gloves or masks when handling cooked items, and many have not undergone proper food safety training.

Further concerns arise from the use of cheap, untraceable ingredients and poor handling of post-cooked products such as pâté, crab paste, cold cuts, or leftovers stored too long without refrigeration. Combined with weak local supervision, these practices have led to several mass food poisoning cases, sparking public concern.

To address this, the Ministry called on provincial authorities to intensify inspections and enforce compliance with mandatory hygiene standards. Vendors must be trained in food safety, remain free from infectious diseases, and operate far from pollution sources. All food must be placed on clean surfaces and protected from sun, rain, dust, and insects.

Violations such as leaving food uncovered or handling it with bare hands can now result in fines ranging from USD 20 to USD 40. More serious breaches - like using unsafe packaging, contaminated water, or additives not approved for use - may draw fines from USD 40 to USD 120. In some cases, authorities may seize and destroy unsafe food.

The Ministry also stressed the need for stronger cross-sector cooperation, more public education, and visible enforcement. Vendors should receive proper training, while violators must be penalized publicly to deter future infractions.

These efforts, it said, are crucial to protecting public health - especially during the upcoming Tet holidays and nationwide festival season.

Phuong Thuy