Food Hygiene Inspection Checklist – Free PDF

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Food hygiene inspection checklist

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Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.

Customize this template or build your own
Fill out templates via mobile app
Assign and track corrective actions
Get reports and analyse your data

Prices start from ░░░ per month

Book a demo

Learn more

This food hygiene inspection checklist helps you maintain rigorous safety standards and prepare for official health inspections. This template methodically examines critical areas: physical facility conditions, food preparation practices, storage protocols, and equipment maintenance.

As FoodSafety.gov states, foodborne illnesses cause approximately 48 million illnesses annually in the US, making regular self-inspections are essential. For instance, a restaurant using this checklist might discover that their refrigeration temperatures are inconsistent, allowing them to address the issue so it doesn’t cause food spoilage or customer illness.

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Preview of the template

Entity

Page 1

Facility Conditions

Is the facility exterior clean and well-maintained?

Are the floors, walls and ceilings clean and in good condition?

Is the lighting sufficient and in working order?

Is the ventilation system functioning properly?

Are the premises free from pests and rodents?

Are waste disposal facilities adequate and well-maintained?

Food Preparation

Are food preparation surfaces clean and sanitized?

Are separate cutting boards used for raw and cooked foods?

Are food handlers wearing clean uniforms and hair restraints?

Do food handlers practice proper handwashing techniques?

Are potentially hazardous foods kept at proper temperatures?

Are food preparation areas free from unnecessary items?

Food Storage

Are food items stored off the floor and away from walls?

Are raw and cooked foods stored separately?

Are food storage areas clean, dry and well-organized?

Are food items stored in appropriate containers with lids?

Are food expiration dates monitored and adhered to?

Are food storage areas free from evidence of pests?

Utensils and Equipment

Are utensils and equipment clean and in good condition?

Are utensils and equipment stored properly when not in use?

Is there a dedicated area for washing and sanitizing utensils?

Are temperature monitoring devices available and functioning?

Are cleaning supplies stored separately from food items?

Are single-use items (plates, napkins, etc.) properly stored?

Frequently asked questions

How can I ensure my staff takes these food hygiene inspections seriously?

Connect inspection results to concrete outcomes—both positive and constructive. Celebrate teams that maintain high standards, and use poor results as teaching opportunities rather than punishment. Consider having staff members participate in inspections to increase their investment in the process and deepen their understanding of food safety principles.

What should I do if I find multiple non-compliance issues during an inspection?

First, prioritize issues based on their potential risk to food safety—address high-risk items like temperature violations immediately. Document all findings, create a specific action plan with clear responsibilities and deadlines, and schedule a follow-up inspection. Use these findings to identify patterns that might indicate need for additional training.

How can I customize this food hygiene checklist for my business?

Review each section and determine which items apply to your operation. Add specific questions relevant to your unique processes or equipment. For example, if you operate a bakery, add questions about flour storage and handling. Just ensure any additions still align with food safety regulations for your region.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.