Food Safety

Our public health inspectors, also known as environmental health officers, conduct more than 16,000 inspections of restaurants, food facilities and stores annually. We also educate food handlers and consumers about safe food handling practices.

About inspections

Inspections are conducted on a regular basis and when complaints are received. Each visit generates an inspection report that is provided to the operator to either confirm that they are compliant with regulations, or to inform them that they are required to address deficiencies.

• For Vancouver, Richmond and North Shore: visit the VCH Food Inspection Reports website.
• For Sunshine Coast and Sea to Sky: visit the Coast Garibaldi Food Establishment and Restaurant Reports website.

• Find out what restaurants and other food establishments have been closed: Visit the Restaurant Closures page.

Report concerns about a restaurant or a case of food poisoning Complete our Feedback Form.

Food safety update

For operators of food service establishments to keep up to date on food safety, regulations and foodborne illness.

Food Safety Update - Winter 2012

Food Safety Update - Spring 2011

Food Safety Update - Fall 2010

More resources

What You Need to Know About Your Local Public Health Inspector

Food Safety for Food Processors

Educational materials and posters

Hand washing posters are available on the Communicable Diseases - Educational Materials page.

Manual Three-Sink Dishwashing Procedure

Contact us

Links will take you to the Find Services directory listing, which includes descriptions, contact details and related documents for our services.