FOOD SAFETY

Rachel C. Swicker
Registered Dietitian, District Specialist, Communities, Families and Youth
Cooperative Extension
University of Massachusetts

Copyright/Access Information

YOU WILL LEARN:

- some of the most important rules affecting family day care food service.

REGULATIONS AFFECTING FAMILY DAY CARE SERVICE

It is not possible to list here all the rules that apply to family day care food service. This is a brief summary of the most important regulations.

1. Food must be wholesome and obtained from reliable sources. Do not serve
home-canned or home-preserved foods.

2. Food protection procedures require that:

• you maintain proper temperatures. Cold foods must be kept at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, frozen foods at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Milk and other dairy products must be refrigerated at all times.
  
• frozen foods be thawed under refrigeration or by other approved methods that do not raise food temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Food must NOT be thawed at room temperature.
  
• food, especially meat and egg dishes, should be cooked thoroughly. Check meat temperatures with a thermometer. Reheat leftovers to AT LEAST 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
  
• you must observe sanitary food handling procedures.
  
• you must never store or use poisonous materials in the kitchen. They must be out of reach of children.

3. Food handling equipment and utensils must be clean and in good repair.

• You must have proper dishwashing equipment and a good, safe supply of hot and cold water.
  
• You must use approved cleaners and disinfectants at the appropriate strengths and temperatures.
  
• You must not reuse disposable plates, cups, utensils, and towels.

4. Hand washing, toileting, and diapering facilities must be convenient, clean, and properly maintained. You must supply soap, disposable towels, and toilet paper.

• The area for changing diapers must be separate from the kitchen.
  
• You must wash your hands after using the toilet, diapering, or helping children use the toilet. Always wash children's hands at these times and before eating or handling food. Use soap, warm running water, and rubbing action.
  
• Do not use the kitchen sink for hand washing after toileting and diaper changing.

5. Vermin and animal control requires that:

• dogs, cats, and other pets not be allowed in the kitchen while you are preparing and serving food.
  
• insects, rodents, and other pests be killed.
  
• doors and windows be screened or protected to prevent insects and pests from coming inside.

RESOURCES TO EXPLORE

Contact your local Cooperative Extension office for free food safety bulletins and classes.