76: The Future of Food Safety Inspections

Public health agencies had to rapidly innovate during COVID-19, and one of those innovations was virtual restaurant inspections. Beginning in March 2020, COVID-19 social distancing and stay-at-home orders required many food establishments to adopt takeout and/or food delivery models. To ensure that establishments were abiding by food safety rules and to protect the health of professionals who inspect these facilities, some state health agencies implemented virtual inspection protocols. This podcast showcases how one state health department pivoted during the pandemic and how they are continuing to use this innovation now and in the future.

Guests

• Edward Simmer, MD, MPH, DFAPA, Agency Director, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
• Susan Best, Program Manager, Division of Food and Lead Risk Assessment, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Resources

• ASTHOBrief: Virtual Food Safety Inspections During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• South Carolina Resource: DHEC COVID-19 Virtual Food Safety Check
• ASTHOBrief: Environmental Health Innovations During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• South Carolina Resource: Food Safety & COVID-19