Ministry of Health proposes tightening food safety regulations for online food delivery services

For the first time, the Ministry of Health has proposed specific and stringent regulations to manage food safety conditions for online food service businesses. This initiative is part of the draft Law on Food Safety (amended), which is currently undergoing public consultation.

According to Article 42 of the draft, small-scale food production and catering establishments engaging in online food delivery must transparently disclose information on e-commerce platforms. Specifically, owners are required to upload commitments meeting food safety standards, including the business address, owner's information, operational type, and product portfolio.

In addition to legal documents such as business registration certificates, enterprise registration certificates, or investment certificates, these units must provide actual photos of their signage or storefronts. This regulation aims to enable consumers to accurately identify where their food is prepared, rather than relying solely on processed product images on delivery apps.

The draft also places special emphasis on intermediaries that only handle delivery without direct processing. These entities must disclose their business licenses, brand names, and location photos, while also attaching labels confirming that the establishment does not serve food on-site. Furthermore, operators of e-commerce platforms are obligated to establish channels for feedback from consumers and delivery riders to address potential food safety violations promptly.

Enhancing transparency in the online business environment not only empowers consumers to make informed choices but also facilitates efficient traceability in case of incidents. In a related development, the Dong Thap Provincial People's Committee has recently issued a plan requiring educational institutions to handle all reports regarding the quality of school meals within a maximum of 24 hours, reinforcing the commitment to raising food safety standards across all sectors.