What does a food safety audit evaluate?

A food safety audit primarily evaluates compliance with food safety regulations. This process involves reviewing a food establishment's practices and procedures to ensure they align with federal, state, and local food safety standards. Audits may assess various aspects including proper food storage, preparation, cooking, and handling practices, as well as the cleanliness of the facilities and equipment.

By focusing on regulatory compliance, a food safety audit helps identify potential risks and areas for improvement, ensuring that the food served to consumers is safe and minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses. While customer satisfaction, financial performance, and employee training programs can be important facets of a food business, they are not the core focus of a food safety audit.