|  | Public Health Safety | Food Safety

FDA Restaurant Regulations

Restaurants and other eating establishments are under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA sets standards and regulations to promote sanitation and protect consumers. These regulations are in effect nationwide.

  1. Food

    • Government regulations require food to be safe for human consumption. There are dozens of specific guidelines for the source, condition and preparation of meat, produce, poultry, fish, shellfish, dairy and other types of food.

    Restaurant Facilities

    • The FDA sets standards for indoor and outdoor restaurant facilities. Restaurants must be sanitary and have cleanable surfaces. There are also specific requirements for lighting, heating, ventilation and restrooms.

    Management

    • The FDA makes management, specifically the individual with the permit to operate a restaurant, responsible for ensuring that facilities are sanitary and that employees follow proper sanitation protocol. Management is also responsible for reporting any cases of what may be food-borne illness to the proper health authority of its area.

    Equipment

    • Regulations are also set on the equipment that is used in restaurants. The composition of items that contact food is stipulated to reduce risk of contamination. Heavy equipment such as refrigerators and dishwashers must also meet standards of functionality.

Food Safety - Related Articles