1. What are the key food safety regulations that apply to food establishments in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, food establishments are required to follow specific regulations to ensure food safety and protect public health. The key food safety regulations that apply to food establishments in Oklahoma include:
1. The Oklahoma Food Code: This regulation sets the standards for food safety in establishments such as restaurants, food trucks, and retail food stores. It covers all aspects of food handling, preparation, storage, and service to prevent foodborne illnesses.
2. Licensing and Permitting: Food establishments in Oklahoma must obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally. This includes obtaining a food establishment permit from the Oklahoma State Department of Health.
3. Food Handler Training: All food handlers in Oklahoma are required to undergo food safety training to ensure they understand proper food handling practices, sanitation, and hygiene.
4. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): Some food establishments in Oklahoma may be required to implement a HACCP plan to identify and control food safety hazards throughout the food handling process.
5. Inspections and Enforcement: The Oklahoma State Department of Health conducts regular inspections of food establishments to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or closure of the establishment.
By adhering to these key food safety regulations, food establishments in Oklahoma can promote a safe and healthy environment for their customers while also complying with the law.
2. How should food establishments in Oklahoma handle foodborne illness outbreaks?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should handle foodborne illness outbreaks promptly and effectively to protect public health and prevent further spread of the illness. The following steps are crucial in managing such situations:
1. Identify and Report: The first step is to identify the outbreak by tracking patterns of illnesses among customers or staff. Once confirmed, the management should report the outbreak to the local health department immediately.
2. Containment and Investigation: The establishment should take immediate action to contain the outbreak by disposing of contaminated food, sanitizing equipment and surfaces, and isolating affected staff members. It is essential to cooperate with public health officials in their investigation to identify the source of the outbreak.
3. Communication: Clear and transparent communication is vital during a foodborne illness outbreak. The establishment should inform the public, customers, and staff about the situation, steps being taken to address it, and any precautions they should take.
4. Employee Training: Ensure that all staff members are trained in proper food handling and hygiene practices to prevent future outbreaks.
5. Review and Improve: After the outbreak has been resolved, conduct a thorough review of processes and protocols to identify areas for improvement. Implement any necessary changes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
By following these steps, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively manage foodborne illness outbreaks and protect the health and well-being of their customers and staff.
3. What are the best practices for preventing cross-contamination in food establishments in Oklahoma?
Preventing cross-contamination in food establishments in Oklahoma is crucial to ensure the safety of customers and to comply with food safety regulations. Some best practices to prevent cross-contamination include:
1. Separate food items: Keep raw meats, poultry, seafood, and produce separate from each other during storage and preparation. Use separate cutting boards, utensils, and containers for each type of food to prevent the transfer of harmful pathogens.
2. Clean and sanitize surfaces: Regularly clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces, equipment, and utensils to remove any potential contaminants. Use approved sanitizers and follow proper cleaning procedures to eliminate bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
3. Practice proper hygiene: Ensure that food handlers wash their hands frequently and correctly, especially after handling raw foods, using the restroom, or touching their face or hair. Encourage employees to wear clean uniforms and hairnets to prevent the spread of contaminants.
4. Store food properly: Maintain proper storage temperatures for refrigerated and frozen foods to prevent the growth of bacteria. Store raw foods on lower shelves or in separate areas to avoid drips onto ready-to-eat foods.
5. Train staff: Provide regular food safety training for all employees to educate them on the importance of preventing cross-contamination and proper food handling practices. Emphasize the significance of following established procedures to maintain a safe and sanitary food environment.
By following these best practices for preventing cross-contamination in food establishments in Oklahoma, operators can ensure the safety and well-being of their customers while also complying with food safety regulations.
4. How should food establishments in Oklahoma properly train their staff on food safety practices?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should prioritize thorough training of their staff on food safety practices to ensure the health and safety of their customers. Here are some key steps that can be taken to properly train staff:
1. Initial Training: Begin by providing comprehensive initial training to all staff members regarding food safety regulations, best practices, and proper food handling techniques. This should include information on personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, temperature control, and cleaning procedures.
2. Regular Refreshers: Conduct regular refresher training sessions to reinforce important food safety protocols and update employees on any changes in regulations or procedures. This can help ensure that staff members stay informed and vigilant about maintaining food safety standards.
3. Hands-On Practice: Implement hands-on training sessions where staff can practice proper food handling techniques under supervision. This can help reinforce learning and ensure that employees are able to apply their knowledge effectively in a real-world setting.
4. Certifications: Encourage staff members to pursue food safety certifications such as ServSafe, which can provide them with a more in-depth understanding of food safety principles and best practices. This can also enhance their credibility and competence in handling food safely.
By following these steps, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively train their staff on food safety practices, ultimately reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensuring a safe dining experience for their customers.
5. What are the recommended temperature requirements for storing and cooking food in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the recommended temperature requirements for storing and cooking food align with the guidelines set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These temperatures are crucial in ensuring that food is safe for consumption and that the risk of foodborne illnesses is minimized. Here are the key temperature requirements:
1. Refrigerator temperature: The refrigerator should be set at or below 40°F (4°C) to slow down the growth of bacteria in perishable foods such as meat, poultry, dairy products, and leftovers.
2. Freezer temperature: The freezer should be kept at 0°F (-18°C) or lower to maintain the quality and safety of frozen foods over an extended period.
3. Cooking temperatures: When cooking various types of food, it is essential to reach specific internal temperatures to kill harmful bacteria. For example, ground meats should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), poultry to 165°F (74°C), and fish to 145°F (63°C).
4. Holding temperatures: Hot foods should be kept hot at 140°F (60°C) or above to prevent bacterial growth, while cold foods should be maintained at 40°F (4°C) or below to inhibit bacterial proliferation.
5. Reheating temperatures: When reheating leftovers or precooked foods, ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any pathogens that may have developed during storage.
By following these recommended temperature requirements for storing and cooking food in Oklahoma, you can help protect yourself and others from foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of the meals you prepare and serve.
6. How can food establishments in Oklahoma prevent foodborne illnesses caused by contaminated water sources?
Food establishments in Oklahoma can take several measures to prevent foodborne illnesses caused by contaminated water sources:
1. Regular Testing: Ensure that water sources, including wells and municipal water supplies, are regularly tested for contaminants such as bacteria, parasites, and chemicals.
2. Water Treatment: Implement appropriate water treatment processes such as filtration, chlorination, or ultraviolet disinfection to remove or kill any potential pathogens in the water supply.
3. Maintain Clean Water Storage: Regularly clean and maintain water storage tanks and reservoirs to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
4. Educate Staff: Train all food establishment staff on the importance of using clean water for food preparation, cleaning, and sanitation purposes.
5. Proper Handwashing: Emphasize the importance of proper handwashing techniques using clean, potable water to prevent cross-contamination of food.
6. Monitor and Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of water quality testing results, water treatment processes, and any water-related incidents to ensure accountability and continuous improvement in water safety practices.
7. What are the best practices for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, following the best practices for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces is crucial to ensure food safety and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. Some key points to consider include:
1. Use the right cleaning products: Select cleaning agents that are approved for use in food establishments and are effective against foodborne pathogens.
2. Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Dilute cleaning solutions as directed and ensure proper contact time for effective sanitization.
3. Establish a cleaning schedule: Regularly clean and sanitize food contact surfaces, especially after handling raw meats, fruits, and vegetables.
4. Use separate cleaning cloths: Have designated cloths for different areas to prevent cross-contamination.
5. Implement a color-coding system: Assign specific colors to cleaning tools used in different areas to avoid mixing them up.
6. Train staff on proper cleaning techniques: Ensure employees are properly trained on the correct procedures for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces.
7. Conduct regular inspections: Monitor cleaning practices regularly and address any issues promptly to maintain a clean and safe environment.
By following these best practices for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces in Oklahoma, food establishments can uphold high standards of food safety and protect the health of their customers.
8. How should food establishments in Oklahoma handle food recalls and withdrawals?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should have clear protocols in place to handle food recalls and withdrawals effectively to ensure the safety of their customers. Here are some key steps they should follow:
1. Stay Informed: Regularly monitor food safety alerts from regulatory agencies to stay updated on any recall or withdrawal notices that may affect their products.
2. Identify Affected Products: Quickly identify any products in their inventory that are part of a recall or withdrawal by checking batch numbers, expiration dates, and other relevant information.
3. Remove Products: Immediately remove the affected products from shelves or storage areas to prevent them from being inadvertently sold or used in meal preparation.
4. Notify Authorities: Report the recall or withdrawal to the appropriate regulatory authorities in Oklahoma as required by law.
5. Notify Customers: Inform customers who may have purchased the affected products about the recall or withdrawal and advise them on how to return or dispose of the items safely.
6. Investigate Root Cause: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the issue and implement corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
7. Review and Update Procedures: After the recall or withdrawal process is complete, review and update food safety procedures to strengthen the system and improve responsiveness in case of future incidents.
By following these steps, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively manage food recalls and withdrawals to protect consumers and maintain their reputation for food safety.
9. What are the requirements for labeling and dating food products in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, there are specific requirements for labeling and dating food products to ensure food safety and proper information for consumers. These requirements include:
1. Labeling: All food products in Oklahoma must be properly labeled with key information such as the name of the product, list of ingredients, allergen information, net quantity, and the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor.
2. Dating: Perishable foods or foods that may become hazardous if not properly stored should have a date mark to indicate the date by which the product should be consumed or sold. This helps consumers and retailers alike in determining the freshness and safety of the product.
3. Proper storage: Food products should be stored in accordance with recommended temperatures and conditions to maintain their quality and safety. This includes refrigerated items being stored at the correct temperature to prevent spoilage.
4. Training: Food handlers and staff involved in labeling, dating, and storing food products should be properly trained in safe food handling practices to ensure compliance with regulations and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
By following these requirements for labeling and dating food products in Oklahoma, businesses can uphold food safety standards, provide accurate information to consumers, and prevent issues related to foodborne illnesses.
10. What are the key components of a food safety management system for food establishments in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, food establishments must adhere to a comprehensive food safety management system to ensure the protection of public health. The key components of such a system include:
1. Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP): Implementing a HACCP program is essential to identify and control potential food safety hazards throughout the production process.
2. Personal Hygiene Practices: Staff training on proper handwashing, wearing appropriate protective clothing, and maintaining personal hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.
3. Food Handling Procedures: Establishing procedures for receiving, storing, preparing, cooking, and serving food safely is fundamental in preventing contamination.
4. Cleaning and Sanitation Protocols: Regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas help mitigate the risk of microbial contamination.
5. Temperature Control: Monitoring and controlling food temperatures during storage, preparation, holding, and serving is critical to prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
6. Allergen Management: Ensuring that allergen information is accurately communicated to customers and preventing cross-contact between allergenic and non-allergenic foods is vital in protecting individuals with food allergies.
7. Supplier Control: Verifying that food suppliers meet safety and quality standards is important to guarantee the safety of the products used in food preparation.
8. Staff Training and Education: Providing ongoing training to employees on food safety practices and regulations is essential to maintain a culture of food safety within the establishment.
9. Record-Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of food safety practices, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and employee training documentation, is crucial for accountability and compliance with regulations.
10. Regulatory Compliance: Staying informed about and adhering to local, state, and federal food safety regulations is imperative to ensure the establishment operates in accordance with the law.
By incorporating these key components into their food safety management systems, food establishments in Oklahoma can mitigate risks, protect public health, and maintain a reputation for safe food service practices.
11. How should food establishments in Oklahoma handle and dispose of food waste properly?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should follow strict guidelines to handle and dispose of food waste properly to maintain cleanliness, prevent contamination, and comply with regulations. Here is a thorough approach to managing food waste:
1. Segregation: Separate food waste from other types of waste at the source to ensure proper disposal.
2. Use of Proper Containers: Store food waste in leak-proof, durable containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent odors and spillage.
3. Regular Removal: Establish a schedule for regular removal of food waste to prevent pest infestation and maintain cleanliness.
4. Composting: Implement a composting system for organic food waste to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
5. Partner with Waste Management Companies: Collaborate with reputable waste management companies for proper disposal of non-compostable food waste, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
6. Employee Training: Provide training to staff on proper procedures for handling and disposing of food waste to maintain hygiene standards and prevent cross-contamination.
7. Monitoring and Auditing: Regularly monitor food waste management practices and conduct audits to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
By following these best practices, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively handle and dispose of food waste in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
12. What are the best practices for pest control in food establishments in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, implementing effective pest control measures is crucial for maintaining food safety in establishments. Some best practices for pest control in food establishments in Oklahoma include:
1. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the facility to identify potential entry points for pests and signs of infestation such as droppings, gnaw marks, and nests.
2. Sanitation: Maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout the establishment, including proper disposal of food waste, regular cleaning of storage areas, and clearing clutter where pests may hide.
3. Seal Entry Points: Seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and windows to prevent pests from entering the facility.
4. Proper Storage: Store food items off the ground and in sealed containers to prevent contamination and attract pests.
5. Monitoring: Set up monitoring devices such as traps and monitors to detect pests early and take appropriate action.
6. Pest Control Professionals: Partner with a licensed pest control company to develop and implement an integrated pest management (IPM) plan tailored to the specific needs of the establishment.
7. Employee Training: Train staff on proper food handling practices, sanitation procedures, and early detection of pest issues to help prevent infestations.
8. Documentation: Keep detailed records of pest control activities, including inspections, treatments, and any corrective actions taken.
By following these best practices, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively prevent and manage pest infestations, ensuring the safety and quality of the food served to customers.
13. How should food establishments in Oklahoma handle customer complaints related to food safety concerns?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should take complaints related to food safety concerns seriously to ensure the health and well-being of their customers. To effectively handle customer complaints regarding food safety, restaurants should:
1. Listen attentively to the customer’s concern and gather as much relevant information as possible.
2. Apologize for any inconvenience and assure the customer that their complaint will be addressed promptly.
3. Investigate the complaint thoroughly to determine the root cause of the issue and take immediate corrective action if necessary.
4. Communicate transparently with the customer about the investigation process and the steps taken to resolve the issue.
5. Follow up with the customer to ensure their satisfaction and show that their feedback is valued.
Additionally, food establishments should document all complaints and their resolutions to identify any recurring issues and implement preventive measures. Training staff on proper food safety protocols can also help in preventing future complaints. It is essential for food establishments to prioritize food safety and customer satisfaction to maintain a good reputation and ensure the continued success of their business.
14. What are the recommended guidelines for transporting and delivering food safely in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, there are specific guidelines and best practices for ensuring the safe transportation and delivery of food to prevent contamination and ensure consumer safety:
1. Temperature Control: It is crucial to maintain the proper temperature of food during transportation. Hot foods should be kept above 140°F and cold foods below 40°F to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Use of Proper Equipment: Use insulated containers, coolers, and heating elements to keep food at the right temperature during transportation. Make sure the vehicles used for transport are clean and properly maintained.
3. Packaging: Food should be appropriately packaged to prevent spillage and cross-contamination. Use sealed containers and packaging materials that are food-safe and leak-proof.
4. Hygiene Practices: Ensure that all individuals involved in the transportation and delivery of food comply with proper hygiene practices. This includes handwashing, wearing clean uniforms, and using gloves when handling food.
5. Storage: During transportation, store raw foods separately from cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. Keep ready-to-eat foods away from raw meat, poultry, and seafood.
6. Delivery Time: Deliver food promptly to ensure it remains at safe temperatures. Avoid prolonged delays or frequent stops during delivery.
7. Communication: Clearly communicate food safety protocols and handling instructions to all staff involved in the transportation and delivery process.
Adhering to these recommended guidelines will help minimize the risk of foodborne illness during the transportation and delivery of food in Oklahoma.
15. How can food establishments in Oklahoma ensure proper handwashing practices among their staff?
To ensure proper handwashing practices among staff in food establishments in Oklahoma, the following steps can be implemented:
1. Training: Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees on the importance of proper handwashing techniques, including when and how to wash hands effectively.
2. Post clear signage: Display instructions on proper handwashing procedures in easily visible areas such as restrooms and kitchen areas to serve as reminders for staff.
3. Provide necessary resources: Ensure that handwashing stations are easily accessible and well-stocked with soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizers.
4. Monitoring and reinforcement: Supervisors should monitor staff to ensure compliance with handwashing protocols and provide feedback or reinforcement when necessary.
5. Implement a handwashing policy: Establish a written handwashing policy that outlines expectations and consequences for non-compliance to emphasize the importance of this practice.
By following these steps, food establishments in Oklahoma can help promote a culture of proper hand hygiene among their staff, ultimately contributing to the overall food safety and well-being of their customers.
16. What are the key considerations for storing and handling eggs and dairy products in food establishments in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, food establishments need to adhere to strict guidelines when storing and handling eggs and dairy products to maintain food safety standards and prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are key considerations for storing and handling eggs and dairy products in food establishments in Oklahoma:
1. Temperature Control: It is crucial to store eggs and dairy products at the proper temperature to prevent bacterial growth and ensure freshness. Eggs should be stored at 45 degrees Fahrenheit or below, while dairy products should be kept at temperatures recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Separate Storage: Eggs and dairy products should be stored separately from raw meats, seafood, and other potentially hazardous foods to prevent cross-contamination. Use separate refrigerators or storage areas for these products to reduce the risk of contamination.
3. Proper Labeling: Always label eggs and dairy products with the date of receipt and use-by date to ensure proper rotation and prevent the consumption of expired or spoiled items.
4. Hygiene Practices: Train staff on proper handwashing techniques and ensure they wear clean gloves when handling eggs and dairy products. Regularly clean and sanitize utensils, equipment, and surfaces that come into contact with these products to prevent cross-contamination.
5. FIFO Method: Implement the “First In, First Out” method when storing eggs and dairy products to ensure that older items are used first before newer ones. This helps maintain freshness and prevents waste.
6. Secure Packaging: Store eggs and dairy products in their original packaging or in airtight containers to protect them from external contaminants and odors. Avoid storing eggs in the refrigerator door, as temperatures fluctuate more in this area.
By following these key considerations for storing and handling eggs and dairy products in food establishments in Oklahoma, you can maintain food safety standards, prevent foodborne illnesses, and ensure the quality and freshness of these products for your customers.
17. How should food establishments in Oklahoma manage food safety risks associated with food allergies?
Food establishments in Oklahoma should take several important steps to manage food safety risks associated with food allergies:
1. Training: Ensure that all staff members are properly trained on food allergens, including which ingredients are common allergens and how to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Communication: Clearly communicate with customers about allergen information, both on menus and verbally when taking orders.
3. Ingredient labels: Make sure that all pre-packaged food items have clear and accurate ingredient labels listing all allergens present in the product.
4. Separation: Keep allergen-free foods separated from foods containing allergens to prevent cross-contact.
5. Awareness: Stay informed about food allergy trends and updates in regulations to continuously improve food safety practices.
6. Emergency procedures: Have clear protocols in place in case of an allergic reaction, including knowing how to use an EpiPen if necessary.
7. Regular inspection: Conduct routine inspections of equipment, storage areas, and procedures to ensure allergen control measures are being followed.
By implementing these measures, food establishments in Oklahoma can effectively manage food safety risks associated with food allergies and ensure the well-being of all customers.
18. What are the best practices for monitoring and documenting food safety practices in Oklahoma food establishments?
In Oklahoma food establishments, monitoring and documenting food safety practices are critical to ensure the safety of the food being served to customers. Here are some best practices for monitoring and documenting food safety practices in Oklahoma food establishments:
1. Implement a food safety management system: Establish a comprehensive food safety management system that includes standard operating procedures, training programs, and regular monitoring processes.
2. Conduct regular inspections: Schedule regular food safety inspections to assess the cleanliness of the kitchen, proper storage of food items, and maintenance of equipment.
3. Keep detailed records: Maintain detailed records of all food safety activities, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, employee training records, and pest control measures.
4. Monitor food temperatures: Regularly check and record food temperatures to ensure that perishable items are stored and served at safe temperatures to prevent bacterial growth.
5. Train employees: Properly train all employees on food safety practices and procedures to ensure that everyone is following the same set of standards.
6. Conduct mock recalls: Practice mock food recalls to test the effectiveness of your recall procedures and ensure that you can quickly trace and remove any contaminated products from the market.
7. Stay up to date with regulations: Stay informed about local and state food safety regulations to ensure compliance with all requirements and to make necessary adjustments to your practices.
By following these best practices for monitoring and documenting food safety practices, Oklahoma food establishments can minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and maintain a safe and healthy environment for both employees and customers.
19. How should food establishments in Oklahoma conduct regular inspections and audits of their facilities to ensure food safety compliance?
In Oklahoma, food establishments should conduct regular inspections and audits of their facilities to ensure food safety compliance by following these best practices:
1. Set up a regular schedule for inspections and audits to be conducted at least once a month or as required by local health regulations.
2. Designate a trained food safety manager or team to oversee the inspection process and ensure that all areas of the facility are thoroughly evaluated.
3. Use a checklist that covers all critical areas of food safety, including hygiene practices, temperature control, storage procedures, and cross-contamination prevention.
4. Conduct inspections during operational hours to assess how food handling processes are carried out in real-time.
5. Keep detailed records of inspection findings, including any non-compliance issues identified and corrective actions taken.
6. Implement a corrective action plan to address any violations or deficiencies identified during inspections.
7. Provide regular training to staff members on food safety practices and procedures to maintain compliance.
By following these steps, food establishments in Oklahoma can ensure that their facilities meet food safety standards and regulations, protecting the health and well-being of their customers.
20. What are the resources available for food establishments in Oklahoma to stay up-to-date on food safety best practices and regulations?
Food establishments in Oklahoma have numerous resources at their disposal to stay current on food safety best practices and regulations. Some key resources include:
1. Oklahoma Department of Health (OSDH): The OSDH’s Food Safety and Food Service Inspection programs provide guidance, training, and information on regulatory requirements and best practices for food establishments in the state.
2. Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA): The ORA offers training programs, workshops, and resources specifically tailored to the foodservice industry in Oklahoma. They keep members informed about new regulations and best practices through newsletters and events.
3. Online Resources: Websites such as the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer a wealth of information on food safety guidelines and regulations that businesses can access for free.
4. Food Safety Training Programs: Various organizations and consultants offer food safety training programs and certifications that can help food establishments stay updated on the latest best practices and regulations.
5. Local Health Departments: Establishments can also reach out to their local health departments for guidance and support in understanding and implementing food safety regulations.
By utilizing these resources, food establishments in Oklahoma can ensure they are up-to-date on the latest food safety best practices and regulations to maintain a safe and compliant operation.