53Power to destroy decomposed food etc

53 Power to destroy decomposed food etc (1) This section applies to food inspected or seized under this part by an authorised officer if the authorised officer is satisfied, on reasonable grounds, that the food— (a) is unsafe or unsuitable; or (b) consists partly or completely of decomposed, filthy, putrid or spoiled matter; or (c) otherwise poses an immediate risk to health or property. (2) The authorised officer may direct the proprietor of the food business concerned to destroy or otherwise dispose of the food. (3) The direction may state 1 or more of the following: (a) how the food must be destroyed or otherwise disposed of; (b) how the food must be kept until it is destroyed or otherwise disposed of; (c) the period within which the food must be destroyed or otherwise disposed of. (4) The proprietor of a food business commits an offence if the proprietor contravenes a direction given to the proprietor under subsection (2).

(6) Alternatively, if the food has been seized under this part, the authorised officer may destroy or otherwise dispose of the food. (7) Costs incurred by or on behalf of the Territory in relation to the disposal of food under subsection (6) are a debt owing to the Territory by the proprietor of the food business.