10 of the most common health code violations in restaurants

Not the sexy part of the business but extremely important to keep sound systems for compliance.

While the specific health code violations can vary depending on the jurisdiction, there are several common violations that restaurants frequently encounter.

Here are ten of the most common health code violations:

Improper food storage temperatures: Failure to store food at the correct temperatures, such as keeping perishable items too warm or frozen foods not adequately frozen.

Inadequate hand hygiene: Poor handwashing practices, including inadequate handwashing duration, not using soap or sanitizer, or failing to wash hands after handling raw food or using the restroom.

Cross-contamination: Allowing cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods, such as using the same cutting board or utensils without proper cleaning and sanitization.

Improper sanitation: Insufficient cleaning and sanitizing of food contact surfaces, equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas, leading to a higher risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses.

Pest infestation: Pests such as rodents, insects, or flies due to inadequate pest control measures, which can contaminate food and pose health risks.

Inadequate employee hygiene: Issues like employees working while sick, not wearing proper hair restraints or clean clothing, or failing to cover wounds or cuts properly.

Lack of allergen control: Failure to properly identify and handle allergens, leading to cross-contamination or mislabeling of allergenic ingredients in food items.

Unsafe food handling practices: Mishandling food, such as using expired ingredients, improper reheating or cooling methods, or failing to follow proper cooking temperatures.

Poor plumbing and sewage issues: Problems with plumbing systems, such as leaks, improper drainage, or backup, can lead to contamination of food and the environment.

Inadequate documentation: Failure to maintain required records, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, employee training records, and permits/licenses, as mandated by local health authorities.

It is important to note that these violations can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific health codes. Regular training, monitoring, and self-assessments are essential to proactively identify and address these common violations.