Food Protection Division

This division protects the health of the public within Jefferson County with regards to sanitary food supplies. This is accomplished by enforcing the minimum standards set forth by regulations Jefferson County and the State of Alabama.

All food establishments that prepare, package, serve, or sell to the public are inspected on a regular basis. These establishments include restaurants, grocery stores, bars, convenience stores, concession stands, mobile food units as well as the kitchens of hospitals, schools, daycare centers, and jails. Also included are temporary food vendors at festivals and other community events. scores

Jefferson County regulations now require mandatory Food safety training as a further means of prevention of food
borne illness.

The Health Department also inspects commercial food establishments where food is manufactured for wholesale. Other agencies such as the Alabama Department of Public Health, USDA, the FDA, and the Alabama Department of Agriculture may also inspect these facilities. NOTE: the FDA has jurisdiction on foods (non-meat) produced outside of Jefferson County; Alabama Department of Agriculture or the USDA handles meats packed in and out of the county

Whenever a food establishment is constructed or remodeled and whenever an existing structure is converted to use as a food establishment, properly prepared plans must be submitted to the Health Department for review and approval before construction, remodeling or conversion is begun. Food Establishment Plan Review

It is unlawful for any person to operate a food establishment unless he possesses a valid permit issued by the Health Officer for the operation of the establishment. Any person desiring to operate a food establishment needs to make written application for a permit on forms provided by the Health Officer. Permits automatically expire on October 1st each year. Permits are not transferable with respect to person, food establishment, or location. Fees

Any complaints dealing with food or milk, or lodging can be entered by going to the Contact Us section of our page, or call 205.930.1260. For complaints involving foods commercially produced or processed outside of Jefferson County, contact the regional office of FDA 1.866.889.0190. For meat products from a meat processor or packer [for example: meats not processed in a grocery store] contact USDA 1.888.674.6854. FDA and USDA may issue recalls for any food products deemed potentially unsafe.

Other food sanitation links include: CDC | FoodNet | NSF (National Sanitation Foundation)

Please contact us at 205.930.1260 for further information.