09/24/2023
The FDA Food Code for 2023 and it’s Significance for Food Businesses
Revised Food Code Changes Coming in 2023
The implications for food businesses
2023 Changes around cooking requirements. The revised Food Code introduces two new stipulations. First, commercially packaged food containing cooking instructions from the manufacturer must be prepared following those guidelines. Exceptions are in place if the manufacturer indicates the food can be consumed without cooking. Second, food that has not undergone processing to control pathogens must adhere to suitable time and temperature guidelines when used in ready-to-eat meals or offered for consumption.
Changes to food donations. Approximately one-third of all food in the U.S. goes unconsumed. For the first time, the Food Code specifically addresses food donations, which the FDA claims is part of the “Administration’s National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health,” which targets the elimination of hunger, reduction of diet-related illnesses by 2030, and the decrease of disparities. The 2022 Food Code, in an effort to reduce food waste and safely distribute high-quality food to those in need, clarifies that food adhering to safety provisions in storage, preparation, packaging, display, and labeling can be donated. Restaurants interested in participating should follow all applicable safety guidelines for food storage.
Pets: The updated Food Code now allows customers to bring pet dogs into outdoor dining areas where permitted, delighting dog lovers. However, the Food Code doesn’t supersede local and state laws regarding pet dogs in dining areas. If prohibited by law, pet dogs remain disallowed. Secondly, restaurants can still choose to ban pet dogs, provided it doesn’t conflict with legal requirements for reasonable accommodations concerning service or medical assistance dogs. Restaurants should allow dogs if there’s doubt about medical necessity. Lastly, enthusiasts of other pets must wait for the next update, unless required for medical reasons.