Food Protection Program

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.

General Food Protection Program Areas include:
 

Food Safety Certification Program

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

QUICK LINKS TO OUR SITE
 

General Food Protection Programs
Public Health Complaints and Response Activities
Food-Borne Disease Outbreak Surveillance
Food Protection Program Community Outreach & Education
Food Establishment Plan Review Applicant Information
Mobile Food Vending
Other Resources

THIS SITE UPDATED APRIL 21, 2005

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