Opening a restaurant is an exciting venture, but it also comes with great responsibility. One of the most critical aspects of running a restaurant is ensuring the safety and quality of the food you serve. Here are some food safety facts you need to know before opening your restaurant:
#1 Temperature control is crucial
Proper temperature control is key to preventing the growth of harmful bacteria in food. Control your appliances by using a digital checklist app like Mr. Tomato LXP where you can assign a refrigeration and heating equipment checkup, and at the same time train your staff on safe temperature ranges for different types of food with the AI-training feature.
#2 Hand hygiene is non-negotiable
One of the most common causes of food borne illness is the transmission of harmful bacteria from unwashed hands. It's important to have a strict hand hygiene policy in place and train your staff on proper hand washing techniques.
#3 Cross-contamination can happen easily
Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria are transferred from one surface or food item to another. Make sure your staff is aware of the risks and takes steps to prevent cross-contamination, such as using separate cutting boards and utensils for different types of food.With Mr. Tomato LXP, you can manage your policies digitally with the Digital Playbook feature, ensuring your entire team gets knows them by heart.
#4 Allergies can be life-threatening
Food allergies are a serious concern, and it's crucial that your staff understands the risks and takes appropriate measures to prevent cross-contact with allergens. Make sure you have clear labeling and communication procedures in place for allergen-free dishes.The training section of Mr. Tomato LXP has an entire section meant to specify possible allergen ingredients in your dishes, promoting such important knowledge in your employees.
#5 Regular inspections are essential
It's important to schedule regular inspections from your local health department to ensure that your restaurant is complying with all food safety regulations. Additionally, you should conduct your own self-inspections to catch any potential issues before they become a problem.
Undoubtedly, food safety should be a top priority for any restaurant owner or manager. By following these food safety facts and implementing strict procedures and training for your staff, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your customers and the success of your business.