What is the FDA Food Code?

Summary: The FDA Food Code is a model set of science-based regulations for food safety in retail and food service environments (restaurants, grocery stores, institutions). While it is published by the federal FDA, it is not federal law itself; rather, it is adopted (voluntarily) by local, state, and tribal jurisdictions to create their own enforceable health codes.

How the Food Code is Enforced

It is important for food service operators to understand that the "FDA Food Code" acts as a reference manual, but your local health inspector enforces local rules.

The Model: The FDA provides the technical and legal basis for safe food handling (temps, hygiene, equipment).
The Adoption: Each state or county decides which version of the Food Code to adopt. (e.g., Your county might still use the 2017 version, even though the 2022 version is out).
The Impact: Always check with your local health department to see which specific edition of the Food Code governs your establishment.

Publication Cycle

The Food Code is constantly evolving to reflect new science.

Interval: Published every 4 years (since 2005).
Supplements: In between full editions, the FDA may publish "Supplements" to update specific rules.
Current Version: The most recent full edition is the 2022 Food Code.

Access the Food Code

You can view current and past editions of the code directly from the FDA website.