Food Safety
Food Safety Program
The Webster County Health Unit’s food safety program seeks to protect residents and visitors to Webster County from foodborne illness. By working with local food establishments, food handlers, caterers, and temporary event coordinators to ensure compliance with the 2013 Missouri Food Code. The Food Code provides instructions, guidelines, and requirements on how to safely handle, prepare, and store food to minimize the risk of contamination and foodborne illness.
According to the 2013 Missouri Food Code, a manager with proper training (completion certificate for a Food Manager’s Course) needs to be on shift at all times that food is being prepared and served to the public. It is highly recommended that all individuals who cook, handle, and/or serve food obtain a certificate in a Food Handlers Safety Class.
For more information on the food safety program, contact the Webster County Health Unit at (417) 859-2532.
Missouri Food Code
Webster County food safety follows the Missouri state standards outlined in the 2013 Missouri Food Code and is held to the regulations of the State of Missouri.
- Prior approval and inspections are required for new food establishments and mobile food vendors will need to complete and submit a Temporary Food Permit.
- Caterers are also required to have a commercially inspected kitchen if preparing food from their residence.
- Food banks, public and private school cafeterias, senior centers, and all other food establishments require routine safety inspections.
- Non-profit food vendors do not need to have prior approval to serve food in Webster County.
Currently, there are no local food ordinances or permits/fees in place for Webster County as we follow the State of Missouri food code.
Have a complaint?
The Environmental Health Concern/Complaint Form is designed to help community members report issues related to sewer systems, food safety, and childcare facilities. By submitting this form, you can ensure that potential health risks are addressed promptly and efficiently by our Environmental Health Specialist.