In Can Tho City, Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Quang Huy of the Security Guard Command under the Ministry of Public Security detected unauthorized locally made fermented fish sauce intended for a government delegation.
The jars were local specialties. But any food item outside the planned menu must undergo inspection before serving to VIPs.
Strict Safety-Control Process
After graduating in 2008, Huy began working at the southern division. His unit uses specialized equipment to check for security risks involving fire, explosions, radioactive substances, and toxic chemicals.
His main responsibility is inspecting food and water before they are served to VIPs. Behind what may appear as an ordinary meal is a strict safety-control process.
This includes checking the origin of ingredients, taking samples, inspecting each type of food, and monitoring food preparation and serving.
All food served to VIPs must be inspected, with results obtained at least 30 minutes before serving. Inspectors calculate the time needed for sampling and testing to ensure inspections do not affect serving schedules.
Every stage is carried out carefully to ensure safety before food and drinks reach the VIP. The work does not end after the meal. Inspectors collect samples of the food served and preserve them for tracing if a problem arises later.
Specialized Training and Equipment
Contrary to popular belief, officers like Huy do not taste the food unless in special circumstances. Food inspections are carried out using specialized technical equipment and professional testing methods.
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However, every location a VIP visits is surveyed and inspected beforehand. Security officers develop contingency plans to ensure the VIP’s safety.
Food inspections follow procedures set by the Ministry of Health and the Security Guard Command. Officers must receive specialized training and regular refresher training in food inspection.
They must also conduct research and continue learning to improve their expertise and proficiency with technical equipment.
Pride in a Quiet but Vital Job
Over the past 18 years, Huy and his colleagues have participated in security operations for activities involving Party and state leaders, international delegations, and major events in southern Vietnam.
These included APEC meetings, the Vesak celebration in Ho Chi Minh City, and celebrations marking the 40th and 50th anniversaries of national reunification.
One notable assignment was U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to Ho Chi Minh City in 2016. At the request of the U.S. side, the food served to the president was prepared by the U.S. team.
However, for other activities, such as drinking coffee outside, technical security officers still inspected the location and prepared safety plans and contingency scenarios.