Costco taste testers continue despite public backlash after food sampler returned positive COVID-19 test
A COVID-19 positive Costco Moorabbin food demonstration worker who cooked in the aisles could have been handing out samples while infected, it has been revealed. And the company has confirmed the free samples will continue despite public backlash.
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Costco is continuing to hand out free food samples despite public backlash after a Moorabbin food demonstration worker tested positive to COVID-19.
It comes after dozens of angry shoppers took to social media to slam the wholesale giant for providing the samples after it was revealed a food sampler returned a positive result for the deadly disease.
The infected worker has not returned to work since July 11 after completing a shift between 2.30 and 6.30pm.
“Why was there any food sampling in the fist place … surely this should have been halted during the current circumstances,” one woman said.
“Don’t think it’s the appropriate time to be handling out samples of food,” another said.
Costco managing director Patrick Noone told the Leader the sample stations would be “reduced” but not discontinued.
“(The food sampler) was wearing a protective mask and gloves while performing their duties,” he said.
In a letter seen by the Leader, employees were told management would undertake “additional cleaning and sanitation protocols” however the store did not close.
“Please continue to practice social distancing to the best of your abilities and good hygiene — cover (your) cough and sneeze, wash hands thoroughly and often and stay home if sick,” the letter read.
“Employees are reminded to wear appropriate personal protective gear such as face masks.”
It comes one week after an employee at the Epping store tested positive to the deadly disease.
The store also remained open, however was deeply disinfected and sanitised.
And on Monday, it was revealed that a Provincial Home Living worker at Moorabbin’s DFO — less than a kilometre away from Costco Moorabbin — tested positive.
“This person last worked on 14 July 2020,” management announced online.
“We have received no advice which indicates there was any risk to our customers or retail team members who visited DFO Moorabbin.”
Angry shoppers took to social media to complain after both Costco and DFO Moorabbin stores weren’t closed, slamming management as “irresponsible”.
“So one at DFO and now one at Costco … (I) won’t be going anywhere near them two places, how about closing all of them down,” one woman said.
“How irresponsible that they haven’t closed for deep cleaning,” another said.
brittany.goldsmith@news.com.au
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