How Does a Food Inspector Spend a Workday?
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What a Food Inspector Does
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A food inspector is an official who is in charge of assuring public safety when it comes to food preparation both in restaurants as well commercial food packaging facilities. A food inspector is the consumers' line of defense against poor hygiene and management in assuring the safety of the foods that we purchase and consume.
Inspecting Staff
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One of the first duties that a food inspector has is making sure that staff are appropriately trained in safe food handling and preparation. This could be as simple as checking that each has a valid food handler's permit, or asking the staff specific questions to assure they know their duties when it comes to food safety.
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Inspecting Management
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Along with checking on the abilities of the staff, a food inspector will also verify that the management is taking the appropriate safety measures as well. A food inspector will question management to make sure that they understand the hazards of their particular business, that they are supervising their employees correctly, and that they have the proper plans and controls in place as protection against food poisoning or other hazards.
Inspecting Cleanliness
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A food inspector will also check the facilities for cleanliness. This may include not only physically checking surfaces and cooking/packaging equipment, but may also include inspecting the types of products used to clean. They will also assure that the business has an appropriate cleaning schedule, and that the schedule is being followed.
Inspecting Control of Disease
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A food inspector will also look very closely for signs of infestations or pests. Since insects and rodents are some of the main carriers for disease this is one of the most important jobs for a food inspector. A food inspector will also look closely at other practices of the business in controlling disease, such as hand washing facilities and directions, cross contamination and the temperature of foods.
Qualifications of a Food Inspector
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A food inspector will usually be required to have a degree in health or a related field from a university as well as be very detail oriented. A food inspector must also have a great sense of ethics and able to withstand offers and bribes from different business owners and management.
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- Photo Credit www.nkyhealth.org
