*What is a COA* ? The Certificate of Acceptability (COA) is a legal requirement for spaza shops selling food. It shows your shop meets health and safety standards. The COA is issued by the Environmental Health Department of the local municipality. An Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) will inspect the premises to verify compliance with Regulation R638 (Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, the Transport and Related Matters - https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201806/41730gon638pdf). *The inspection focuses on* : • Premises cleanliness • Food handling practices • Staff hygiene • Pest control measures • Proper food • storage and waste disposal #spazaconnect©