Pane Organico Bakery: $40,000 Fine For Serious Health Code Violations On The Gold Coast

Admin

2 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

4.6

Share

Pane Organico Bakery Hit with $40,000 Fine for Serious Health Code Violations

Gold Coast, QLD, Australia – October 26, 2023 – Beloved Gold Coast bakery, Pane Organico, known for its artisanal breads and organic ingredients, has been slapped with a hefty $40,000 fine following a recent health inspection that uncovered serious health code violations. The penalties highlight the critical importance of maintaining stringent hygiene standards in food production environments.

The inspection, conducted by Gold Coast City Council health officials on October 19th, revealed a range of concerning issues putting public health at risk. These violations, deemed serious enough to warrant such a substantial fine, included:

• Pest infestation: Evidence of a significant rodent infestation was found throughout the bakery, including areas where food was prepared and stored. This poses a major risk of contamination and the spread of disease.
• Improper food storage: Food items were not stored at appropriate temperatures, increasing the likelihood of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. This included improperly refrigerated dairy products and potentially hazardous ready-to-eat items.
• Lack of hygiene protocols: Inspectors noted a lack of adherence to basic hygiene protocols among staff, including inadequate handwashing and unsanitary work practices.
• Equipment maintenance: Bakery equipment was found to be poorly maintained, with evidence of rust and grime, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

Pane Organico's Response and Future Implications

A spokesperson for Pane Organico released a statement acknowledging the violations and expressing their commitment to rectifying the issues. The statement emphasized the bakery’s dedication to providing high-quality, organic products and deeply regretted any potential risk to public health. They have pledged to invest significantly in improving their hygiene practices, staff training, and equipment upgrades to ensure future compliance.

However, the severity of the violations and the substantial fine raise serious questions about the bakery’s past practices and oversight. The $40,000 penalty serves as a stark warning to other food businesses on the Gold Coast and across Australia about the crucial importance of adhering to strict health regulations. Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties and irreparable damage to reputation.

Gold Coast City Council's Commitment to Food Safety

Gold Coast City Council stressed its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of food safety for residents and visitors. This action demonstrates their proactive approach to food safety inspections and their willingness to enforce penalties for serious breaches. The council's ongoing commitment to regular inspections reassures consumers that their food safety concerns are being addressed.

This case underscores the need for increased vigilance in the food industry, emphasizing the necessity of robust hygiene protocols, regular inspections, and prompt action to address any identified violations. Consumers are advised to be aware of food safety concerns and report any suspected breaches to the relevant authorities. The incident serves as a potent reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting food safety standards, both for businesses and the public at large. The ongoing investigation will determine whether further actions will be taken.