The NSW Iemma Government's name and shame website has already attracted more than 25,000 hits since the website was set up on July 1, Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald said today. Rydges and McDonalds were both prosecuted for diry food facilities and implements.

"From today there are 46 offences listed on the Food Authority website and in just over three weeks, the name and shame register has had more than 25,000 hits, an average of 1200 a day," he said.

"These figures show the register is achieving its aim of giving hardworking families better access to food business performance.To see the website go to Named & Shamed   (Hit link)

"The website publication system is simple to use and effective – it delivers specific information about those few food businesses that aren't up to scratch."
Eight new penalties appear on the website today, including:
• A McDonald's restaurant in Jilliby (Wyong Shire) fined $660 for evidence of rats found in the food-handling area;
• A Penrith bakery fined $660 for having a dirty shop and equipment;
• A Sydney Chinese restaurant fined $330 for not keeping food under temperature control; and
• A Penrith takeaway fined $660 for two hygiene breaches.
Mr Macdonald said an average of 15 names was added to the shame list each week and it could have almost 200 entries by this time next year.

Minister Macdonald said new laws enacted earlier this month also gave local councils formal responsibility in food safety monitoring and regulation.

"Councils play an important role in this new initiative and I congratulate them for their work in making food outlets safer and helping consumers become better informed," he said.
"While improving consumer information, the new website also provides a powerful incentive for the food industry to boost its performance."