TXDSHS Rules


Regulations set by the Texas Department of State Health Services outlining safe food handling and sanitation requirements in retail food establishments.

Related Terms

Food Allergy

An immune response to proteins in specific foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish); can cause serious re...

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Employee Health Policy

Guidelines requiring food employees to report illnesses and follow exclusion or restriction rules...

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Secret Shopper Inspections

Unofficial visits by private firms or corporate auditors posing as customers to test compliance w...

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Glassware Handling

Safe transport and cleaning of cups and glasses to avoid breakage or contamination. Food handler ...

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Food Establishment Inspection

Periodic visits by health inspectors to verify compliance with TXDSHS standards, checking cooking...

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Food Handler Card

A physical or digital card received upon successfully completing an accredited food handler cours...

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Food Handler Certification

A state-approved credential ensuring individuals understand basic food safety practices. In Texas...

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CDC Food Code vs. TXDSHS

The CDC’s Food Code provides federal guidance, while TXDSHS adopts or modifies these recommendati...

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Pest Control

Methods to prevent or eliminate rodents, insects, or other pests in food establishments. TXDSHS r...

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Sneeze Guard

Protective shield placed over salad bars or buffets to prevent customers from contaminating ready...

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Service Animals

Dogs or miniature horses trained to assist individuals with disabilities; TXDSHS allows them in f...

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Allergen Labeling

Federal and state regulations requiring clear indication of major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, sh...

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Hot Holding

Keeping cooked foods at or above 135°F until served. Steam tables or heat lamps are commonly used...

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ANSI-Accredited Course

A training program that meets standards set by the American National Standards Institute. Texas f...

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Personal Hygiene

Essential practices like regular hand washing, wearing clean uniforms, and maintaining short nail...

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Certified On The Fly

An online platform offering Texas Food Handler Certification and TABC Seller Server training; rec...

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Cold Holding

Storing perishable foods at or below 41°F to slow bacterial growth. Food handler courses emphasiz...

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Time/Temperature Control

The principle of keeping perishable foods out of the temperature danger zone (41°F–135°F) to inhi...

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