The program is open to registered Class 2 retail food premises, including:
The program recognises three areas of Excellence:
If your business:
Then Best Bites is for you.
Businesses that operate electronic gambling machines are not eligible for assessment. This exclusion is required under Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Responsible Electronic Gaming Policy (2016) and supports the Health and Wellbeing Plan priority to reduce harm from alcohol, other drugs and gambling.
The Best Bites program has been running since 2012.
Busineses participating in the Best Bites program say the benefits of the program include:
Savings – Best Bites businesses receive 10% off their annual food safety registration, applied in the following financial year.
Personalised Feedback – Your assessment includes an onsite visit with a Best Bites Committee member to discuss your business. You’ll also receive a detailed assessment report with personalised, practical insights to help you identify opportunities for improvement and track your progress over time.
Recognition – Businesses receive a Best Bites door sticker, a certificate of excellence, digital assets, and promotion through the Mornington Peninsula Business website, newsletter, and social media.
Learning – You will join a local network of food professionals and receive opportunities to continuously improve your business.
Additional benefits
To become a Best Bites business, you must:
Achieve a very high standard in your annual Food Safety Assessment.
Take part in a 30‑minute site visit with a Best Bites Committee member and complete an assessment form. You’ll receive a copy of your report for your records.
Participation is FREE, and qualified businesses receive 10% off their next annual food safety registration.
If you would like to join the Best Bites program, talk to your Environmental Health Officer (EHO) at your annual Food Safety Assessment or contact the Best Bites Committee (call 5950 1446 or email business@mornpen.vic.gov.au)
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Last updated January 2026
