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Cyclospora Outbreak: What Food Service Operators Need to Know Foodborne illness outbreaks serve as an important reminder that food safety requires constant attention. This summer, public health officials are investigating a widespread Cyclospora outbreak affecting thousands of people across the United States. The FDA has linked one major outbreak to…

Serving alcohol comes with significant responsibility. Restaurants, bars, convenience stores, hotels, and entertainment venues all face legal and financial risks when alcohol is served improperly. Responsible Vendor Training helps businesses reduce those risks while creating safer environments for employees and customers. Why Responsible Alcohol Service Matters Alcohol-related incidents can lead…

Food safety has always been important, but in today's restaurant and hospitality industry, it has become a critical business priority. Whether you operate a restaurant, food truck, convenience store, school cafeteria, or catering company, ensuring your employees understand proper food handling procedures can help protect your customers, your reputation, and…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Proper waste management is essential to maintaining a clean, safe, and compliant food service operation. When trash is handled correctly, it prevents pests, odors, cross-contamination, and health code violations. A clean kitchen doesn’t happen by accident because it starts with how we manage waste…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   High-risk populations are more likely to get seriously ill from foodborne illness. This includes babies and young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Food service professionals play a critical role in protecting these guests by following stricter food safety practices and…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Internal food safety audits are proactive, in-house reviews of daily food safety practices. They help managers and staff identify risks, correct problems early, and maintain compliance before the health inspector ever walks through the door. When done correctly, internal audits build accountability, consistency, and…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Improperly reheated food can lead to foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria, which thrive when food is held at unsafe temperatures. To protect customers and ensure food safety, it is crucial to follow proper reheating procedures as outlined by the FDA Model Food Code. This…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Holding food at the correct temperature is crucial to preventing foodborne illness. Whether hot or cold, food must remain in the safe temperature zone to slow bacterial growth and maintain food quality. This lesson will provide guidelines based on the FDA Model Food Code…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Thawing food safely is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Food should never be thawed at room temperature, as this allows bacteria to multiply rapidly. Instead, foodservice establishments must use safe thawing methods to ensure food…

Food Safety Bites with Beth   Cooking food to the correct internal temperature is essential for food safety. Proper cooking eliminates harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. It is not just about reaching the right temperature but also holding that temperature for the correct amount of time. Following FDA…