Cantonese-style barbecue meat food safety in Vancouver Coastal Health

Abstract

Cantonese-style barbecue meat is a popular food sold by retail food establishments in the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) region. It involves considerable preparation and food handling. A suspected foodborne illness associated with consumption of Cantonese-style barbecue meat was investigated by VCH in 2010. A clinical specimen submitted by the complainant and food samples from the implicated food establishment tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus and its toxin. The food samples also contained other pathogenic bacteria. Repeated food sampling at this establishment showed similar findings and resulted in a Closure Order. To determine if these concerning microbiological results were isolated or were more widespread among Cantonese-style barbecue meat establishments, a study involving surveys, food sampling, educational workshops, and evaluation was conducted at 68 facilities within VCH. This case study provided valuable data that were not previously available about Cantonese-style BBQ meat products and their preparation and handling. Our detailed review of BBQ meat processes and the laboratory results confirmed that these are high-risk foods, and incorrect handling and sanitation practices can present a health risk to consumers. Knowledge retention and improvement in food handling practices by operators were not observed when evaluated 6 months after participating in educational workshops held at their facilities.