Health and safety rules help keep restaurant customers safe from food-related sickness and dirty conditions. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) makes sure restaurants follow these rules by checking for problems. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, temporary closures, or even losing a business license. Knowing about common violations can help restaurant owners and workers follow state laws.
Common violations found during inspections
Health inspectors visit restaurants to make sure they are handling food safely. One of the most common mistakes is storing food the wrong way. Cold foods need to be kept at the right temperature to stop bacteria from growing. Storing raw meat above ready-to-eat foods can spread germs and cause food poisoning.
Another big issue is not washing hands properly. Workers must wash their hands with soap and warm water after touching raw ingredients, using the restroom, or handling anything dirty. Not washing hands correctly can spread germs and make customers sick.
Pest infestations and unsanitary conditions
Restaurants must stay clean to keep pests like mice and bugs away. Health inspectors often find problems when businesses do not seal entry points, leave food uncovered, or fail to clean kitchens properly. Signs of pests, such as droppings or chewed packaging, can be serious health risks. Regular cleaning and pest control services help keep restaurants safe for customers.
What happens if restaurants break health rules
If a restaurant breaks health rules, it must fix the problems quickly to avoid punishment. Small mistakes may lead to warnings, but serious issues can cause restaurants to close immediately. The health department shares inspection results online, so customers can see if a restaurant has health violations. A bad health score can hurt a restaurant’s reputation and cause it to lose customers.
Training staff and checking food safety rules regularly can help prevent violations. Restaurants should follow food handling rules, keep cleaning schedules, and make sure workers practice good hygiene. Staying on top of safety standards helps prevent problems and keeps customers safe.