Ontario Food Handler Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the Ontario Ministry of Health regarding food safety?

1. To provide nutrition education to the public

2. To develop and enforce food safety regulations in Ontario

3. To inspect restaurants and food service establishments

4. To promote local food production

The correct answer is: To develop and enforce food safety regulations in Ontario

The primary function of the Ontario Ministry of Health concerning food safety is to develop and enforce food safety regulations in Ontario. This role is crucial because it ensures that food safety standards are maintained across various sectors, protecting public health from foodborne illnesses and hazards. The Ministry of Health collaborates with other agencies and organizations to create regulations that govern food handling, preparation, and distribution, ensuring that food operators follow best practices. While nutrition education, inspecting establishments, and promoting local food production are important activities related to public health and food systems, they are not the primary function of the Ministry in the context of food safety. Nutrition education typically falls under the purview of public health initiatives aimed at informing the public about healthy eating. Inspections of restaurants and food service establishments, although critical in maintaining compliance with safety standards, are part of the enforcement process, which is broader in scope. Promoting local food production is a complementary effort to support local economies and sustainable agriculture but does not directly address food safety regulations.