ANN ARBOR, Mich. — NSF International has partnered with the Rhode Island Department of Health to create a food-safety audit and certification program that recognizes establishments using industry best practices.
Designed specifically for foodservice establishments, NSF Dine Safer is a voluntary food-safety certification program that combines federal and state regulations with industry best practices in food safety, workplace safety and sanitation, according to a news release.
All retail foodservice establishments within the state of Rhode Island, including full- and quick-service restaurants, convenience stores, catering service associations, hotels and foodservice and facility management companies, are encouraged to participate.
"Food establishments receiving the Dine Safer Award are demonstrating to the public that they are in compliance with health department requirements and industry best practices for food safety, quality and worker safety," said David R. Gifford, MD, MPH, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. "This program will also allow (the health department) to focus its resources on other establishments that pose a much greater risk of foodborne illness."
Foodservice establishments that meet these requirements, based on Food and Drug Administration Food Code requirements and industry best practices, will receive the NSF Dine Safer mark that can be displayed publicly within the foodservice establishment and on the company's Web site. These establishments also will appear in NSF's official listings and on the Rhode Island Department of Health's Web site.
