State Adopts New Food Service Sanitation Code

The Ford-Iroquois Public Health Department has received notification from the Illinois Department of Public Health regarding the adoption of amendments to the Food Service Sanitation Code.  “We are trying to get the word out to food operators regarding the changes in the food code,” said Terry Eimen, Environmental Health Coordinator for the local health department. 

Eimen said the purpose of this code is to safeguard public health by providing consumers with food that is safe, unadulterated and honestly presented, which will prevent illnesses caused by ingesting food.  According to Eimen, changes in the code include changes in temperature requirements and the definition of potentially hazardous food items as well as other regulations.  “It is very important for food operators to be aware of these code changes as we will be required to inspect these establishments based upon the new code,” he said.

Mr. Eimen said the changes in the code can be accessed online at:  http://www.idph.state.il.us/rulesregs/2007%20Rules/77%20IAC%20750%207_18.pdf.

According to Eimen the food service sanitation manager’s certification exam will also be updated to reflect the new regulations.