Recent Food Safety Violations
Between November 18 and December 1, 2024, two restaurants in Polk County, FL were cited for double-digit health code violations during routine inspections, and several others were found with multiple infractions. One restaurant received 11 violations, which included improper food storage temperatures, unclean food contact surfaces, and inadequate handwashing facilities. Another establishment had 10 violations, encompassing issues such as cross-contamination risks, lack of employee hygiene training, and improper sanitization of equipment. Additionally, other restaurants were flagged for violations ranging from improper cold holding of food items to issues with pest control and failure to label and date prepared foods. These findings highlight widespread lapses in food safety practices across various establishments, potentially putting public health at risk.
The Importance of Compliance with Food Safety Training and Certification
In Florida, food service establishments are legally required to comply with specific food safety training and certification mandates to protect public health and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Florida Statutes Chapter 509.039 requires that managers in a public food service establishment receive their Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) certification and that establishments employing four or more people responsible for the storage, preparation, display, and serving of food to the public must have at least one CPFM on duty at all times. This certification is valid for five years, after which re-certification through testing is required. View Serve It Up Safe’s CPFM class schedule under the “Manager’s Classes” tab of our website.
Furthermore, Every food employee in a Florida DBPR-licensed food service establishment who receives, prepares, stores, or serves food, or handles food contact surfaces, must complete Food Handler training specific to their job duties, as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 509.049. Newly hired employees require training within 30 days of employment. For more information on how to acquire the Food Handler certification, visit the “Food Handler’s Cert” page of our website.
Proper training not only helps restaurants meet legal requirements but also significantly reduces the likelihood of violations by keeping staff informed about best practices and reinforcing the importance of maintaining high standards. A focus on compliance can help restaurants prevent serious issues such as cross-contamination, improper storage, and pest infestations, contributing to a safer dining experience and protecting their reputation in the community.
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