Ensuring the safety of our food

Many diseases are food-borne, which means that you can get them by eating contaminated food.  The purpose of food safety inspections is to ensure that food available to the public is prepared and stored safely.  Inspections are conducted to ensure that the food service providers in Vernon County meet Missouri Department of Health standards.  Food inspections cover such things as:

• Serving foods at proper temperatures
• Storing foods in proper containers and at safe temperatures
• Proper hygiene of food service workers
• Proper hygiene of facilities
• Water safety
• Proper sewage and wastewater treatment 
• Plumbing
• Sanitation

Food service classes are available for persons who work in the food services in Vernon County. 

The Health Department inspects restaurants and other food service providers in Vernon County at least twice a year.  If you have a complaint or question about the condition of a restaurant, you may call the environmental public health specialist at 417-667-7418.