Officials warn about ad on hand-washing posters

PROVIDENCE – A hand-washing signage advertisement from a company calling itself the Rhode Island Food Service Compliance Center is causing a stir in the food industry.
The R.I. Department of Health said it has received several inquiries concerning the official-looking advertisement, titled “Requirement for all Food Establishments,” which advises food businesses to improve compliance with Rhode Island food regulations by displaying hand-washing posters at all hand-washing facilities. The mailing includes an order form for hand washing posters, at a minimum cost of $14.95 each.
Although the Health Department recommends such signage – handwritten will do – it is not currently required. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that similar advertising has gone out to food establishments in other states across the country.