New Toowoomba food businesses defy economic struggles to open up during 2020 despite COVID-19

Despite the economic hardships brought on by COVID-19, new statistics from the council have shown the rate of new food businesses in Toowoomba have not slowed down.

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New food businesses have been popping up in Toowoomba as quickly as they did before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new figures.

Statistics from the Toowoomba Regional Council revealed 161 new food licence applications were approved in 2020, almost identical to the number for 2019 (160).

This was also higher than the 149 approved in 2018, and suggests a continued confidence in potential food operators to set up shop in Toowoomba.

Environment and community portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon said the council was the agency that approved licences for businesses wanting to sell food.

“Legislation requires most food businesses, including hobby food businesses, to be licensed by the council,” he said.

“The council monitors the standard of a food business against the Food Act 2006 and Food Standards Code.

“A licensable food business is a food business that involves the manufacture of food, is carried on by an entity other than a non-profit organisation and involves the sale of unpackaged food by retail, or is carried on by a non-profit organisation and involves the sale of meals on at least 12 days each financial year.

“If someone is thinking of making and selling food, they should contact the council on 131 872 and ask to speak to an environmental health officer for further licencing information.”