Food Establishment Inspection
Related Terms
Grease Trap Maintenance
Regular pumping and cleaning of grease interceptors to prevent drain clogs and odors. TXDSHS may ...
Read MoreConsumer Advisory
A notice on menus about the risks of eating raw or undercooked foods (e.g., oysters, rare meats)....
Read MoreEmployee Health Policy
Guidelines requiring food employees to report illnesses and follow exclusion or restriction rules...
Read MoreActive Managerial Control
A proactive approach where managers continuously verify staff compliance with TXDSHS health regul...
Read MoreInfrastructure Backups
Issues like sewage or water line backups in kitchens or bars. TXDSHS mandates immediate closure a...
Read MoreFoodborne Illness Investigations
Inquiries conducted by TXDSHS after reported outbreaks; establishments must provide temperature l...
Read MoreFood-Grade Chemicals
Cleaning agents or lubricants safe for use in food areas; must have labeling and handling instruc...
Read MoreFood Handler Certification
A state-approved credential ensuring individuals understand basic food safety practices. In Texas...
Read MoreDisciplinary Actions for Food Violations
Penalties like fines, permit suspensions, or mandatory retraining if TXDSHS finds serious infract...
Read MoreCDC Food Code vs. TXDSHS
The CDC’s Food Code provides federal guidance, while TXDSHS adopts or modifies these recommendati...
Read MorePest Control
Methods to prevent or eliminate rodents, insects, or other pests in food establishments. TXDSHS r...
Read MoreBacterial Spores
Dormant forms of bacteria (e.g., Bacillus cereus) that survive cooking and grow when conditions b...
Read MoreReligious-Based Dietary Accommodations
Adjusting menus for kosher, halal, or other faith-related rules; labeling foods accordingly helps...
Read MoreAllergen Labeling
Federal and state regulations requiring clear indication of major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, sh...
Read MoreAllergic Reaction Response
Emergency steps if a customer experiences anaphylaxis, including stopping service, calling 911, a...
Read MoreRisk-Based Inspections
Health inspections focusing on high-risk factors (e.g., improper holding temps, poor personal hyg...
Read MoreSidework Checklists
Closing or opening tasks like restocking, cleaning equipment, or verifying correct PFD signage fo...
Read MoreShared Kitchen Spaces
Facilities rented by multiple businesses (e.g., ghost kitchens). TXDSHS rules apply to each tenan...
Read MoreFloor Drain Sanitation
Regular cleaning of kitchen drains to prevent bacterial buildup or pest breeding. TXDSHS inspecto...
Read MoreConsumer Feedback Logs
Voluntary records of customer complaints or praises regarding food or alcohol service; managers u...
Read MoreShift Log Documentation
A record of daily occurrences, including temperature checks, ID verifications, and incidents; hel...
Read MoreHACCP Plan
“Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point” framework used to identify potential hazards in food pro...
Read MoreLaundering Linens
Proper washing and storage of towels, aprons, and uniforms, preventing cross-contamination. Some ...
Read MoreWater Supply Interruption
If running water fails, TXDSHS typically requires ceasing operations until it’s restored for hand...
Read MoreTXDSHS Rules
Regulations set by the Texas Department of State Health Services outlining safe food handling and...
Read MoreChemical Storage Separation
Storing cleaning chemicals away from food, utensils, or single-use items to prevent accidental in...
Read MoreMenu Labeling
Displaying nutritional information or allergen disclaimers on menus or menu boards to help consum...
Read MoreSous Vide Cooking
Cooking food in vacuum-sealed pouches at low temperatures; TXDSHS requires strict time/temp contr...
Read More