12VAC5-421-3510: Public health protection

A. The department shall apply this chapter to promote its underlying purpose, as specified in 12VAC5-421-30, of safeguarding public health and ensuring that food is safe , unadulterated and honestly presented when offered to the consumer.

B. In enforcing the provisions of this regulation, the department shall assess existing facilities or equipment that were in use before June 10, 2021, based on the following considerations:

1. Whether the facilities or equipment are in good repair and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition;

2. Whether food-contact surfaces comply with 12VAC5-421-960 through 12VAC5-421-1060; and

3. Whether the capacities of cooling, heating, and holding equipment are sufficient to comply with 12VAC5-421-1450.