Cantonese-style barbecue meat is a popular food sold by retail food establishments in the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) region. It involves considerable preparation and food handling. A suspected foodborne illness associated with consumption of Cantonese-style barbecue meat was investigated by VCH in 2010. A clinical specimen submitted by the complainant and food samples from the implicated food establishment tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus and its toxin. The food samples also

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... ed other pathogenic bacteria. Repeated food sampling at this establishment showed similar findings and resulted in a Closure Order. To determine if these concerning microbiological results were isolated or were more widespread among Cantonese-style barbecue meat establishments, a study involving surveys, food sampling, educational workshops, and evaluation was conducted at 68 facilities within VCH. This case study provided valuable data that were not previously available about Cantonese-style BBQ meat products and their preparation and handling. Our detailed review of BBQ meat processes and the laboratory results confirmed that these are high-risk foods, and incorrect handling and sanitation practices can present a health risk to consumers. Knowledge retention and improvement in food handling practices by operators were not observed when evaluated 6 months after participating in educational workshops held at their facilities.