Food and Consumer Safety Bureau

The Department is responsible for administering and enforcing the Iowa Food Code (Iowa Code chapter 137F) by conducting food safety inspections at food establishments (grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores) and food processing plants. The purpose of the Iowa Food Code is to "safeguard the public health and provide to consumers, food that is safe, unadulterated and honestly prepared."

All food establishments in Iowa are inspected according to the 2005 Iowa Food Code. The Food Code is based upon food safety recommendations developed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in consultation with representatives from the food industry and regulators. The Food Code is based on scientifically developed factors focusing on public health and the prevention of foodborne illness.

Restaurant Inspection Web Site

The Food and Consumer Safety Bureau maintains a Restaurant Inspection Web Site through which visitors will be able to learn more about the inspection process used at food establishments, who to contact with licensing or complaint questions, or how to obtain a copy of a recent food inspection report. Additional references of value to visitors include links to useful web sites dealing with food safety issues, including links to local health departments and applications.

Resources
2005 Iowa Food Code

Temporary Food Service Establishments and Farmer's Market Operator's Guidelines

481--30 Food and Consumer Safety
481--31 Food Establishments and Food Processing Plant Inspections
481--34 Home Food Establishments
481--35 Contractor Requirements
481--37 Hotel and Motel Inspections

Iowa Code Chapter 137C - Hotel Sanitation Code

Iowa Code Chapter 137D - Home Food Establishments

Basic Requirements for Restaurants and Grocery Stores

Basic Requirements for Farmers Markets

Basic Requirements for Mobile Food Units/Pushcarts

Food Processing Plants - Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)

Temporary Food Stand Handwashing Set-up

Temporary Food Establishments and Farmers Market Licensees

Iowa Department of Revenue - Iowa Sales Tax on Food