GEORGE TOWN: Fifteen food samples taken from Ramadan bazaars statewide last year were found to be contaminated.
State Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the 15 food samples were among 175 samples or 8.6 per cent sent for microbiology analysis.
He said the samples were taken randomly from 2,901 premises checked.
"A total of 99.9 per cent of the premises checked were in satisfactory condition, getting more than 80 points.
"Last year, we received two complaints with regard to food cleanliness," he said after a walkabout at the Bayan Baru Ramadan bazaar here today.
A total of 63 notices with compounds totalling more than RM8,000 were issued last year.
They were for offences such as not wearing an apron, not wearing a head cover, wearing accessories and not taking the anti-typhoid jab.
"No violation has been detected.
"We expect to take more than 200 samples this year for testing," he added, noting that Penang approved Ramadan bazaars at 81 locations statewide.
Meanwhile, state Agrotechnology and Food Security Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol advised traders at the Bayan Baru Ramadan bazaar not to throw their oil residue into the drain.
He said he received complaints on the matter.
"I even have proof and seen for myself the condition.
"I advise the traders not to continue throwing their oil residue into the drain before action is taken against them," he said.
Meanwhile, commenting on the current dry spell, Gooi said there has not been any cases of heat stroke.
He, however, advised Muslims observing the fast to drink as much water as possible during sahur and iftar.
"By right, they should consume at least eight glasses of water a day," he said.