Consumer Food Safety

San Mateo County Environmental Health Services works to keep your food safe to eat by inspecting food sold in markets, restaurants, schools, mobile facilities, and special events. Following simple steps can protect you and your loved ones from foodborne illnesses.

What is foodborne illness?

Foodborne illness (also known as food poisoning) refers to any illness caused by eating or drinking something that is contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals that can make people sick.

Common foodborne illness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and dehydration. Symptoms can begin a few hours to several days after consuming contaminated food or drink, and they may last from a few hours to several days. Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you are in a high-risk group (i.e. young children, elderly, pregnant women).

Foodborne Illness Prevention 

Clean​
– Wash your hands before, during, and after preparing food. 
– Wash all fresh produce before cutting or consuming.
– Prevent germs or pathogens from spreading to your food. Keep sticky fingers out of the kitchen and cover foods. 

Separate
– Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and ready-to-eat items like vegetables and bread to avoid across-contamination.
– Ensure raw eggs, meat, poultry and their juices stay separate from foods that will not be cooked. 

Cook
– Use a chafing dish to keep hot foods at 135°F or above.
– Reheat leftovers quickly and thoroughly to 165°F.
– Bake baked goods according to instructions. It’s tempting, but don’t eat raw dough or batter!
– When frying, be aware of the cooking times to ensure food is fully cooked and ready for consumption. To properly dispose of the cooking oil after use, click here.

Chill
– Use ice bowls to keep food cold (below 40°F).
– Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of preparation. 
– Do not defrost food at room temperature. Thaw your foods safely, in the refrigerator, microwave, or under cold running water. 

How to File a Complaint 

If you suspect you have a foodborne illness from food sold at a market, restaurant, school, mobile facility, or special event in San Mateo County, please fill out the Online Complaint Form or call (650) 599-1112.