BEDFORD– The Lawrence County Commissioners have officially passed a resolution to update the county’s Health Department food code, aligning local regulations with the latest statewide food safety standards. The move comes as the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) implements its new Retail Food Establishment Sanitation Requirements (410 IAC 7-26), replacing the previous version, 410 IAC 7-24.
According to Priscilla Terrell of the Lawrence County Health Department, these updated state regulations are designed to enhance food safety, safeguard public health, and offer more precise guidance to food establishments across Indiana. The passing of this local resolution was a necessary step for Lawrence County to effectively enforce any violations of these new state mandates.
“The state has made significant updates to their food code, and it’s crucial for us to adopt these changes locally so we can continue to ensure the safety of food served in our community,” stated Terrell. “This new resolution gives us the authority to enforce these updated regulations, ultimately benefiting everyone.”
The new state requirements include 26 key changes, many focusing on consumer information and protecting vulnerable populations. Notable updates include more detailed requirements for informing consumers about the potential health risks of consuming raw or undercooked food. Additionally, the new code restricts offering undercooked meat or fish on children’s menus, a measure aimed at protecting younger diners.
Food establishments in Lawrence County are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new 410 IAC 7-26 requirements to ensure compliance. The Lawrence County Health Department will work with businesses to provide guidance and support during this transition to the updated food safety standards.
