Food Safety & Service Sanitation

food prep

Safeguarding Public Health Through Food Service Safety & Sanitation

Foodborne illness remains a major public health concern in the United States, causing an estimated 48 million illnesses, 128,000 hospitalizations, and 3,000 deaths each year. About 1,000 reported outbreaks occur annually at the local, regional, and national levels. These numbers highlight the ongoing challenges of preventing foodborne illness and the importance of strong food safety standards.

The Food Service Program helps reduce these risks through routine inspections, education, and enforcement of food safety requirements. Efforts focus on key risk factors such as improper temperature control, inadequate cooking, contaminated equipment, unsafe food sources, and poor sanitation practices. Environmental Health staff use the Food Code and 15A NCAC 18A .2600 to work with food service operators to help reduce risks and promote safe food service across the community.

The North Carolina Food Code establishes statewide standards for safe food handling, preparation, and service in regulated food establishments. Based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s model Food Code, it provides a science-based framework designed to help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
View the The North Carolina Food Code Manual Now 

15A NCAC 18A .2600, Rules Governing the Protection and Sanitation of Food Establishments, is part of the North Carolina Administrative Code that adopts the Food Code and sets enforceable state requirements. These rules address management practices, employee hygiene, food storage, equipment standards, plumbing, facility design, permitting, grading, and inspections.
View 15A NCAC 18A .2600 Now

Health Inspection Reports are typically available shortly after an inspection is completed. Search by establishment name or ZIP code.
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Data referenced from the 15A NCAC 18A .2600

For More Information or Questions, 
Please contact Environmental Health
Call 252-902-3200 or Email: pitt.envhealth@pittcountync.gov