What is a food safety audit?

A food safety audit is an evaluation of a food operation's adherence to food safety standards. This process involves systematically reviewing various aspects of food handling and preparation within a facility to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. The goal is to identify potential hazards, ensure proper food handling techniques are being followed, and confirm that all necessary procedures are in place to protect food from contamination.

Conducting regular food safety audits helps maintain high standards of food safety and can improve overall operational efficiencies. This type of audit looks specifically at factors such as employee training, sanitation practices, food storage methods, and proper cooking temperatures. By focusing on adherence to food safety standards, a food safety audit plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and preventing foodborne illnesses.