Department of Food and Consumer Safety

Foodborne Disease Prevention

Foodborne illness is estimated to result in as many as 48 million cases of disease in the United States each year. Many victims of foodborne illness encounter discomfort or lost time on the job as a result of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. For others who may be elderly, very young, or have weakened immune systems, foodborne illness may cause much more serious problems or be life-threatening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 3,000 needless deaths occur annually as result of people becoming ill from microorganisms in food.

In addition to microbial contaminants, chemical and physical hazards may be associated with food. Chemicals such as cleaning compounds and pesticides may injure or poison consumers, while physical contaminants such as metal slivers, pebbles, or glass may cause injury. Foodborne illness costs can be expensive for its victims and facilities implicated in outbreaks and illness.

In 2011, Food Safety inspectors investigated 195 complaints from individuals concerned that they may have become ill eating at a Marion County food establishment. To reverse the occurrence of foodborne disease, we have heightened our education efforts. Staff co-developed and provide a nationally recognized education program, "Food Safety Day". The program focuses on foodborne disease, temperature control, personal hygiene, and cross contamination and is provided monthly at the health department, semi-annually in county-wide events, or by request at facilities.

Other programs provided included plan review, school education and special event coordination. Our ordinance requires plans be submitted for review prior to starting construction or alteration of new facilities. Evaluation ensures compliance with the ordinance and prevents potentially costly design flaws and penalties for illegally opening. Organizers of special events need to register with the department to ensure proper licensing of their invited food stands and to provide proper sanitary and waste disposal facilities for event patrons.

Farmers' Market Application and Information