How to File a Complaint on a Restaurant for Molded Food

Some molds can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems when ingested or inhaled. In certain circumstances, a few molds can produce mycotoxins, which are poisonous substances that can make people ill. If you find mold on food at a restaurant, it should not be consumed. Report any incidents of moldy food at a restaurant to your state public health department. Reporting unsafe food at eateries helps reduce the potential for you and others to become ill.

Instructions

• 1

  Inform the restaurant of the moldy food. Do not sniff or ingest the moldy item, as this may cause respiratory problems or illness. As mold spreads quickly, refrain from eating any other item near the moldy food.

• 2

  Prepare a written summary of the incident. Write down details of the incident, including the name and address of the restaurant, the food item with the mold, the date and time of the incident, the names of any witnesses or people you were dining with and their contact information, and whether the moldy food caused any illness. If you became ill from contact with the mold, include information on any medical treatment you sought or received and the name of your doctor.

• 3

  Locate your state department of health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that any complaints about restaurant food should be sent to state public health departments. These departments are responsible for overseeing and licensing restaurants. A list of state public health departments can be found on the federal government's FoodSafety.gov website.

• 4

  Visit the webpage of your state department of public health and determine how to file a complaint. Generally, states allow complaints to be submitted in writing by email, fax or mail, or by calling.

• 5

  Follow up with the public health department. Once your complaint is submitted, the public health department will launch an investigation, which will generally include an inspection of the restaurant. If you do not hear back from the department, consider contacting them after two weeks to seek an update.