Foodborne Illness Prevention in Ohio

1. What are the most common types of foodborne illnesses reported in Ohio?

The most common types of foodborne illnesses reported in Ohio include:

1. Norovirus: Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. It is often spread through contaminated food or water, as well as person-to-person contact.

2. Salmonella: Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause salmonellosis, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. It is commonly found in raw poultry, eggs, and unpasteurized milk.

3. Campylobacter: Campylobacter is another type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning, with symptoms including diarrhea (often bloody), fever, and abdominal cramps. It is frequently associated with undercooked poultry and unpasteurized dairy products.

4. Listeria: Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can lead to listeriosis, a serious infection with symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. It is commonly found in deli meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized milk.

Preventing foodborne illnesses in Ohio involves proper food handling practices, such as thorough cooking of meat and poultry, washing hands and utensils regularly, and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. It is essential for food establishments to follow food safety guidelines and regulations to minimize the risk of outbreaks and protect public health.

2. What are the main sources of foodborne illnesses in Ohio?

1. The main sources of foodborne illnesses in Ohio are typically associated with the consumption of contaminated food and water. Some common sources of foodborne illnesses in Ohio include:

2. Contaminated Food Products: Food items that are not properly handled, stored, or cooked can become contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. Raw or undercooked animal products, such as meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, are often linked to foodborne illnesses.

3. Cross-Contamination: Cross-contamination occurs when harmful pathogens from one food item are transferred to another food item through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces or utensils. Improper handling of raw and ready-to-eat foods can increase the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness.

4. Food Service Establishments: Restaurants, food trucks, catering services, and other food service establishments can be sources of foodborne illnesses if proper hygiene and food safety protocols are not followed. Poor sanitation practices, inadequate cooking temperatures, and improper storage of food can all contribute to the spread of foodborne pathogens.

5. Foodborne Outbreaks: Occasionally, foodborne illnesses in Ohio may be linked to larger outbreaks involving multiple cases of illness from a common food source. These outbreaks are often investigated by public health officials to identify the source of contamination and prevent further spread of the illness.

By understanding these main sources of foodborne illnesses in Ohio and taking preventive measures such as practicing good food safety habits, proper handwashing, and cooking food to appropriate temperatures, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting a foodborne illness.

3. How are foodborne illnesses tracked and reported in Ohio?

In Ohio, foodborne illnesses are primarily tracked and reported through the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and local health departments. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Laboratory Testing: When an individual falls ill with symptoms of a foodborne illness, they may seek medical attention. Healthcare providers are required to report suspected cases to the local health department. The health department may then collect samples for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of a specific foodborne pathogen.

2. Case Investigation: Once a diagnosis is confirmed, public health officials conduct a thorough investigation to identify the source of the illness. This may involve interviewing the affected individual about their recent food consumption, conducting trace-back investigations to determine the origin of contaminated food, and identifying potential sources of contamination.

3. Reporting and Surveillance: Confirmed cases of foodborne illness are reported to the Ohio Disease Reporting System (ODRS), a centralized database managed by the ODH. This system allows public health officials to track and monitor foodborne illness outbreaks in real-time, enabling a rapid response to prevent further spread of the illness.

Overall, the collaboration between healthcare providers, local health departments, and the ODH plays a crucial role in tracking and reporting foodborne illnesses in Ohio, leading to the implementation of targeted interventions to protect public health.

4. What steps can restaurants and food establishments in Ohio take to prevent foodborne illnesses?

Restaurants and food establishments in Ohio can take several steps to prevent foodborne illnesses:

1. Implement proper food handling and safety practices, including regular handwashing, using gloves when handling food, and ensuring that all food is cooked to the appropriate temperature to kill harmful bacteria.

2. Train staff on food safety protocols and procedures to ensure that they are aware of the risks associated with improper food handling and are equipped with the knowledge to prevent contamination.

3. Maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen environment by regularly cleaning and sanitizing surfaces, equipment, and utensils to prevent the spread of bacteria.

4. Monitor food storage practices to ensure that perishable items are stored at the correct temperature and for appropriate durations to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.

By following these steps and implementing a food safety management system, restaurants and food establishments in Ohio can greatly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and keep their customers safe.

5. How does the Ohio Department of Health regulate and enforce food safety standards to prevent foodborne illnesses?

The Ohio Department of Health regulates and enforces food safety standards to prevent foodborne illnesses through several key mechanisms:

1. Inspection and Compliance: The department conducts routine inspections of food establishments such as restaurants, grocery stores, and food processing facilities to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Inspectors check for factors such as proper food storage, handling procedures, cleanliness, and employee hygiene practices.

2. Enforcement Actions: If violations of food safety standards are identified during inspections, the department has the authority to take enforcement actions. This can include issuing citations, fines, and even shutting down establishments that pose a serious risk to public health.

3. Training and Education: The Ohio Department of Health provides resources and training to food establishments on best practices for preventing foodborne illnesses. This includes guidance on proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques to minimize the risk of contamination.

4. Collaboration with Partners: The department works closely with other agencies, such as local health departments, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to coordinate efforts in ensuring food safety standards are met across the state.

5. Response to Outbreaks: In the event of a foodborne illness outbreak, the Ohio Department of Health plays a critical role in investigating the source of the contamination, implementing control measures, and issuing public health alerts to prevent further spread of the illness. This proactive approach helps mitigate the impact of outbreaks and protect the health and safety of the public.

6. What are the key differences between food safety regulations at the state level in Ohio compared to federal regulations?

In Ohio, food safety regulations at the state level may differ from federal regulations in several key aspects:

1. Implementation: The state of Ohio may have additional regulations that build upon federal requirements to further protect public health within the state. These state-specific regulations are tailored to address food safety issues that are particularly relevant to Ohio’s population and food industry.

2. Enforcement: While both federal and state regulations are designed to ensure food safety, enforcement mechanisms may vary. Ohio may have its own food safety enforcement agency or agencies responsible for overseeing compliance and conducting inspections within the state. In some cases, Ohio’s enforcement actions may be more stringent or proactive than those at the federal level.

3. Licensing and inspections: Ohio may have its own licensing requirements for food establishments operating within the state, in addition to any federal permits that may be needed. State inspectors may conduct regular inspections of food businesses to verify compliance with both state and federal regulations.

4. Training and education: Ohio may offer specific food safety training programs and resources for food handlers and managers within the state. These programs may supplement federal training requirements and help ensure that food workers in Ohio have the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent foodborne illnesses.

5. Advisory roles: Ohio may also play an advisory role in providing guidance and recommendations to food establishments on food safety best practices beyond what is mandated by federal regulations. This proactive approach can help prevent foodborne illness outbreaks and promote a higher standard of food safety in Ohio.

Overall, while there is significant overlap between food safety regulations at the state and federal levels, the key differences lie in the specific requirements, enforcement mechanisms, and support services provided by Ohio to ensure the safety of the food supply within the state.

7. What training and certification requirements are in place for food handlers in Ohio to prevent foodborne illnesses?

In Ohio, food handlers are required to undergo food safety training and obtain a food handler certification to prevent foodborne illnesses. The Ohio Department of Health’s Food Protection Program administers these requirements to ensure that food service workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle food safely.

1. Food handlers in Ohio are required to complete an approved food safety training program. This program covers topics such as proper handwashing techniques, safe food handling practices, preventing cross-contamination, and temperature control.

2. Upon completion of the training program, food handlers must pass a certification exam to demonstrate their understanding of food safety principles. This exam may be administered online or in-person, depending on the training provider.

3. Food handler certifications in Ohio are typically valid for a certain period, after which food handlers are required to renew their certification by completing a refresher course and passing the exam again.

By ensuring that food handlers are properly trained and certified in food safety practices, Ohio aims to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and protect public health.

8. What role do local health departments play in preventing and addressing foodborne illnesses in Ohio?

Local health departments play a crucial role in preventing and addressing foodborne illnesses in Ohio through various measures:

1. Inspection and Regulation: Local health departments conduct regular inspections of food establishments to ensure they comply with food safety regulations. This includes checking for proper food storage, preparation, and handling practices to prevent contamination.

2. Education and Training: Local health departments offer food safety training to food service workers and managers to educate them on best practices for preventing foodborne illnesses. This helps in improving awareness and compliance with food safety guidelines.

3. Outbreak Response: In the event of a foodborne illness outbreak, local health departments play a key role in investigating the source of the outbreak, identifying the cause, and implementing control measures to prevent further spread of the illness.

4. Collaboration: Local health departments work closely with other agencies such as the Ohio Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local stakeholders to share information and resources related to foodborne illness prevention and response.

Overall, local health departments are essential in safeguarding public health by ensuring that food establishments maintain high standards of food safety practices and by responding promptly to any incidents of foodborne illnesses in Ohio.

9. How are foodborne illness outbreaks investigated and managed in Ohio?

In Ohio, foodborne illness outbreaks are investigated and managed through a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies and departments.

1. Detection: Outbreaks are usually identified through reports of illness from individuals or healthcare providers, as well as through surveillance systems that monitor for unusual upticks in specific types of illnesses.

2. Investigation: Once an outbreak is suspected, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) typically leads the investigation, working in coordination with local health departments, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

3. Response: The primary goals of the response are to determine the source of the outbreak, prevent further illnesses, and implement control measures to mitigate the impact. This may involve conducting interviews with affected individuals, inspecting food establishments, collecting and testing samples from suspected sources, and implementing recalls or public health alerts as needed.

4. Communication: Throughout the investigation and response, various stakeholders, including the public, healthcare providers, and the food industry, are kept informed through regular updates and communication to ensure transparency and collaboration.

5. Prevention: Once an outbreak is under control, efforts shift towards identifying opportunities for improvement in food safety practices to prevent future outbreaks. This may involve providing education and resources to food handlers, implementing regulatory changes, or conducting research to better understand the factors contributing to foodborne illness outbreaks in Ohio.

10. What are the recommended practices for maintaining proper food handling and storage in Ohio to prevent foodborne illnesses?

In Ohio, there are several recommended practices for maintaining proper food handling and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses:

1. Proper handwashing: Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water before handling any food items to prevent the spread of bacteria.
2. Separation of raw and cooked foods: Raw meats, poultry, and seafood should be stored separately from cooked foods and ready-to-eat items to avoid cross-contamination.
3. Proper cooking temperatures: Ensure that foods are cooked to the recommended internal temperatures to kill harmful bacteria. Refer to the Ohio Department of Health’s guidelines for specific temperature recommendations.
4. Proper storage temperatures: Refrigerators should be kept at 40°F or below, and freezers at 0°F or below to prevent bacteria growth.
5. Regular cleaning and sanitizing: All food preparation surfaces, utensils, and equipment should be cleaned and sanitized frequently to prevent the spread of pathogens.
6. Proper thawing practices: Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or in the microwave to prevent bacteria growth.
7. Avoiding cross-contamination: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and produce to prevent cross-contamination.
8. Safe food handling practices: Do not leave perishable foods out at room temperature for more than two hours (or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F).
9. Employee training: Food service workers should be trained in proper food handling and storage practices to ensure safe food preparation.
10. Regular inspections and audits: Regular inspections of food handling practices and storage areas can help identify potential risks and prevent foodborne illnesses in Ohio establishments.

11. Are there specific guidelines in Ohio for the safe preparation of foods known to be high-risk for causing foodborne illnesses?

Yes, Ohio has specific guidelines in place for the safe preparation of high-risk foods to prevent foodborne illnesses. Some key guidelines include:

1. Temperature control: Ensuring that high-risk foods are stored, cooked, and held at the correct temperatures to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. For example, cooking ground meats to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F to kill any pathogens present.

2. Cross-contamination prevention: Implementing practices to prevent the transfer of pathogens from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods. This includes using separate cutting boards for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods, as well as proper handwashing and sanitizing procedures.

3. Personal hygiene: Mandating proper handwashing practices for food handlers, as well as guidelines for when to report illnesses or symptoms related to foodborne diseases to prevent the spread of pathogens.

4. Cleaning and sanitizing: Establishing protocols for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces, equipment, and utensils to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

Overall, following these guidelines can help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with high-risk foods in Ohio. It is important for food establishments to adhere to these regulations to protect public health and ensure the safety of consumers.

12. How does Ohio ensure the safety of food served at events and gatherings where food is prepared and served to large groups of people?

In Ohio, the safety of food served at events and gatherings where food is prepared and served to large groups of people is ensured through various measures:

1. Licensing and Inspections: The Ohio Department of Health requires all food service operations, including events and gatherings, to obtain a license and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

2. Food Safety Training: The state mandates that food service personnel, including those involved in event catering, undergo food safety training to ensure they understand proper food handling techniques and guidelines.

3. Food Handling Guidelines: Ohio follows the FDA Food Code, which provides specific guidelines on food handling, storage, and preparation to prevent foodborne illnesses.

4. Temperature Control: Proper temperature control of food items is crucial in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Ohio regulations require food service establishments to monitor and maintain proper temperatures during food preparation and service.

5. Handwashing and Hygiene: Ohio emphasizes the importance of handwashing and personal hygiene in preventing foodborne illnesses. Food service workers are required to follow strict hygiene practices to prevent cross-contamination.

6. Cross-Contamination Prevention: Ohio regulations require food service establishments to take measures to prevent cross-contamination, such as using separate cutting boards for raw and ready-to-eat foods.

7. Traceability and Recall Plans: Food service operations in Ohio are required to maintain records of their food suppliers and have plans in place for quickly identifying and recalling potentially contaminated foods.

By enforcing these regulations and guidelines, Ohio ensures the safety of food served at events and gatherings, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses among large groups of people.

13. What resources are available in Ohio for food establishments to improve their food safety practices and prevent foodborne illnesses?

In Ohio, food establishments have several resources available to help improve their food safety practices and prevent foodborne illnesses.

1. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) offers various training programs and resources for food handlers and managers to learn about proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques. They also provide guidance on conducting self-inspections and implementing best practices in food safety.

2. Local health departments in Ohio often offer food safety training courses and certification programs for food service workers. These programs cover topics such as personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, and proper cooking temperatures.

3. The Ohio Restaurant Association (ORA) provides resources and support to its members to help them ensure food safety compliance and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. They offer training seminars, webinars, and resources on food safety regulations and best practices.

4. The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) regulates food safety for retail food establishments, food manufacturers, and distributors in the state. They provide guidance on proper labeling, storage, and handling of food products to prevent contamination and outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.

By utilizing these resources and taking proactive measures to improve food safety practices, food establishments in Ohio can help protect the health and well-being of their customers and prevent foodborne illnesses.

14. What steps can consumers take to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses when dining out in Ohio?

When dining out in Ohio, consumers can take several steps to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses:

1. Choose restaurants that have a good reputation for cleanliness and food safety practices. This can include checking online reviews or asking friends and family for recommendations.
2. Look for restaurants that have high sanitation ratings from local health departments. These ratings are usually displayed prominently on the restaurant premises.
3. Make sure the restaurant staff are practicing good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and wearing gloves when handling food.
4. Be cautious of undercooked or raw foods, especially meats, seafood, and eggs. These foods can harbor harmful bacteria if not cooked properly.
5. Avoid cross-contamination by ensuring that raw and cooked foods are kept separate during preparation and storage.
6. Ask questions about the menu items if you are unsure about how they are prepared or if you have any dietary restrictions.
7. Trust your instincts – if something doesn’t seem right with the food or restaurant, it’s okay to walk away and find another place to dine.
By following these steps, consumers can reduce their risk of contracting a foodborne illness when dining out in Ohio.

15. How are foodborne illnesses linked to agricultural practices and food production in Ohio, and what measures are in place to mitigate these risks?

Foodborne illnesses are intricately linked to agricultural practices and food production in Ohio for several reasons:

1. Contamination during production: The use of animal manure, irrigation water, and pesticides in agriculture can introduce harmful pathogens to crops, which can then contaminate food products during harvesting and processing.

2. Processing and packaging: Improper handling and poor hygiene practices during food processing and packaging in facilities can lead to the contamination of food products with pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses.

3. Transport and distribution: The transportation and distribution of food products from farms to retail outlets can also be a source of contamination if proper temperature control and sanitation measures are not followed.

To mitigate these risks, Ohio has several measures in place:

1. Good agricultural practices (GAPs): Ohio farmers are encouraged to follow GAPs to ensure the safety and quality of their produce. This includes practices such as proper sanitation, water management, and worker hygiene.

2. Food safety training and certification: Ohio has programs in place to provide training and certification for farmers, food processors, and handlers to ensure they understand and follow best practices for preventing foodborne illnesses.

3. Regulatory oversight: State agencies such as the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Health enforce food safety regulations and conduct inspections to ensure that food production facilities meet required standards.

4. Consumer education: Ohio also focuses on educating consumers about safe food handling practices at home to further reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

By implementing and enforcing these measures, Ohio aims to minimize the occurrence of foodborne illnesses associated with agricultural practices and food production in the state.

16. Are there specific regulations in Ohio addressing food safety in food processing facilities to prevent foodborne illnesses?

Yes, there are specific regulations in Ohio that address food safety in food processing facilities to prevent foodborne illnesses. These regulations are enforced by the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). Some key regulations include:

1. Ohio Uniform Food Safety Code: This code outlines the requirements for food establishments, including food processing facilities, to ensure the safe handling, preparation, and storage of food products.

2. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs): Food processing facilities in Ohio must comply with GMPs to maintain a clean and sanitary environment, prevent cross-contamination, and ensure proper labeling and packaging of food products.

3. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): Ohio regulations require food processing facilities to develop and implement a HACCP plan to identify and control food safety hazards throughout the production process.

4. Licensing and Inspections: Food processing facilities in Ohio are required to obtain a license from the ODA and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Overall, Ohio has specific regulations in place to help prevent foodborne illnesses in food processing facilities and protect public health.

17. How does Ohio monitor and regulate food imports to prevent the introduction of foodborne illnesses from outside the state?

Ohio monitors and regulates food imports to prevent the introduction of foodborne illnesses from outside the state through several measures:

1. Inspection and Enforcement: The Ohio Department of Agriculture conducts routine inspections of food imports to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. They inspect the facilities where the food is processed, stored, and distributed to verify that proper food safety practices are followed.

2. Licensing and Permits: Imported food establishments are required to obtain licenses and permits to operate in Ohio. These documents are issued after confirming that the facilities meet the necessary health and safety requirements.

3. Testing and Sampling: Ohio utilizes testing and sampling protocols to check imported foods for contaminants, pathogens, and other potential foodborne hazards. This helps to identify any issues early on and prevent contaminated products from reaching consumers.

4. Collaboration with Federal Agencies: Ohio works closely with federal agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to ensure that imported foods meet federal regulations and standards. This collaboration strengthens oversight and enhances the safety of imported food products.

5. Public Education and Outreach: Ohio also conducts public education and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the risks of foodborne illnesses associated with imported foods. By educating consumers about safe food handling practices and how to identify potential risks, the state aims to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.

Overall, Ohio’s comprehensive approach to monitoring and regulating food imports plays a crucial role in preventing the introduction of foodborne illnesses from outside the state, safeguarding the health and well-being of its residents.

18. What support and assistance are available to food establishments in Ohio that are looking to improve their food safety standards and prevent foodborne illnesses?

Food establishments in Ohio looking to improve their food safety standards and prevent foodborne illnesses can access various support and assistance resources. Some of the key avenues for help include:

1. Ohio Department of Health (ODH): The ODH offers educational materials, training sessions, and guidance on food safety regulations for food establishments. They often conduct inspections to ensure compliance with state food safety laws and provide valuable feedback to help businesses improve.

2. Local Health Departments: County or city health departments play a vital role in overseeing food safety at the local level. They offer training programs, resources, and one-on-one consultations to help food establishments implement best practices in food safety.

3. Food Safety Certification Programs: Ohio offers certification programs such as ServSafe, which provide in-depth training on food safety practices and principles. Certification can enhance the knowledge and skills of food establishment staff in preventing foodborne illnesses.

4. Consulting Services: Some private companies specialize in food safety consulting and can provide tailored advice on improving food safety standards. These services can include personalized assessments, staff training, and assistance in developing food safety protocols.

5. Online Resources: Various online resources, including the ODH website, provide access to food safety guidelines, tools, and templates for food establishments to use in their operations.

6. Industry Associations: Joining industry associations like the Ohio Restaurant Association can provide food establishments with access to a network of peers, educational events, and resources focused on food safety and best practices.

By leveraging these support and assistance resources, food establishments in Ohio can proactively enhance their food safety standards, reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and maintain the trust of their customers.

19. What role does education and public awareness play in preventing foodborne illnesses in Ohio?

Education and public awareness play a critical role in preventing foodborne illnesses in Ohio. Here are several key points to consider:

1. Education helps individuals understand the importance of proper food handling techniques, such as handwashing, avoiding cross-contamination, and cooking food to safe temperatures.

2. Public awareness campaigns can help disseminate important information about food safety practices, such as keeping perishable foods refrigerated, thawing food properly, and following expiration dates.

3. Training programs for food handlers, such as restaurant staff and food service workers, can ensure that they are knowledgeable about safe food practices and take necessary precautions to prevent contamination.

4. Consumer education initiatives can empower individuals to make informed decisions when purchasing and preparing food, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Overall, education and public awareness initiatives are essential in Ohio to promote a culture of food safety and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses in the community.

20. What new or emerging foodborne illness threats are being closely monitored in Ohio, and what strategies are in place to address these risks?

In Ohio, there are several new or emerging foodborne illness threats that are being closely monitored to protect public health. Some specific risks that are being watched include:

1. Foodborne pathogens such as Cyclospora, which has been linked to various fresh produce outbreaks.
2. Emerging strains of Salmonella and E. coli that are becoming more resistant to antibiotics.
3. Toxins produced by mold and fungi in certain food products.

To address these risks, Ohio has implemented various strategies including:

1. Enhancing food safety surveillance and monitoring systems to quickly identify outbreaks and trace their sources.
2. Providing training and resources to food handlers and processors on safe food handling practices.
3. Collaborating with healthcare providers and laboratories to improve reporting and testing of foodborne illnesses.
4. Conducting research and studies to better understand emerging pathogens and their impact on food safety.
5. Enhancing public education and outreach efforts to raise awareness about food safety practices among consumers.

By closely monitoring these new and emerging foodborne illness threats and implementing effective strategies, Ohio aims to reduce the incidence of foodborne illnesses and protect the health of its residents.