The Office of Food Protection (OFP is a component of the Environmental Health Services Unit of the Department of Public Health and is the local food safety agency for the City of Philadelphia. OFP programs are conducted under authority provided by the Philadelphia Health Code and the regulations adopted thereunder. These programs focus on the prevention of foodborne illness, the maintenance of a sanitary and wholesome food supply, and safe handling of foods for distribution or service within Philadelphia. Food establishments regulated by the OFP include restaurants, retail food markets, food processing plants, mobile food vendors, caterers, childcare establishments, special event food service operations, food donation and community based feeding programs, and food service activities within childcare establishments, shelter operations, schools and other institutions. OFP conducts inspections of food establishments to ensure compliance with the Philadelphia Health Code. OFP is also responsible for the prompt investigation of reported foodborne illness outbreaks and for responding to citizens complaints of unwholesome foods and unsanitary conditions in food establishments. OFP initiates appropriate enforcement actions to effect compliance when needed ensure compliance with Health Code provisions and safe food handling practices.

Philly Food Program Goes Risk Based 

The Philadelphia Food Protection Program is changing to a Risk Based Approach.  Very shortly the inspection report form and inspection process used by Philadelphia sanitarians will change to reflect a risk based approach when food operations are evaluated.  The inspection report will now indicate the types of food handling activity that occurs at an establishment and the current status in regard to compliance.  This approach will give a much more detailed evaluation of how the establishment is meeting food safety goals and requirements.  More information available: Introduction to a Risk Based Food Inspection Program and inspection form.

General Food Protection Program Areas include:
 

Food Safety Certification Program

The Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate is required to be posted in a conspicuous location within public view.

Plan Review Program
Mobile Food Vendor
Special Events Programs
Summer Food Programs

Catering Services

Caterers from jurisdictions outside the City of Philadelphia must obtain approval from the Office of Food Protection to serve or distribute food within Philadelphia.

THIS SITE UPDATED July 31, 2007