RELEASE OF UPDATED FDA FOOD CODE:
On December 28, 2022 the FDA announced the release of the 2022 edition of the FDA Food Code. A copy of the latest version, along with a full summary of changes can be found below. City of Bethlehem staff, along with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture will be working on simplified version of important changes, which will be available on this website shortly.
Article 1113 of the City of Bethlehem Codified Ordinances adopts 7 Pa. Code, Chapter 46, which in turn adopts the current version of the FDA Model Food Code as our regulations. Food faciliites will be permitted one (1) year to comply before violations will be cited or enforcement conducted relative to the new provisions.
Some key changes included in this version:
- Food Donations are addressed for the first time.
- Sesame hasbeen added as the 9th major food allergen
- Consumers must be informed, in writing, of major food allergens as ingredients in unpackaged food.
- Labelling of major food allergens in bulk food that is available for consumer self-dispensing.
- New requirements for the allowance of pet dogs in outdoor dining spaces; and
- Revision of the definition of intact meat, including enhancements to clarify time/temperature cooking requirements.
Summary of Changes
Food safety inspectors will be reviewing the updates with all licensed facilities at the time of inspection, however if additional information is needed, please contact bsomishka@bethlehem-pa.gov
City Ordinances
Pennsylvania Food Code