View frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the Food Establishment Inspection Fee
MISSION STATEMENT:
To implement and enforce the sanitation and quality standards relative to the food industry through service, education, and regulation.
Inspections
NDA has entered into contracts with three city/county health departments to perform food inspections in their representative jurisdictions. The Department's 15 food sanitarians cover the remainder of the state. DHHS inspects schools, hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers, and camp food service facilities.
Inspection Frequency
The Food Code requires that all food establishments be inspected at least once every six months, or according to a risk-based inspection process.
Types of Inspections
In addition to routine inspections, four additional inspections may occur at food establishments. Click on the dropdowns to learn more.
All new food establishments must submit copies of the building plans for review and approval. During a pre-inspection, the building plans and actual facility are checked for kitchen design, handwashing and warewashing facilities, restrooms, plumbing, and other physical aspects of the establishment.
All complaints received by NDA are investigated during a "complaint" inspection.
If violations are found during a routine or complaint inspection that require additional correction, a follow-up inspection is conducted. If "critical violations" are found during any inspection, the sanitarian will issue a compliance date that may range from immediately to a day or more.
If a foodborne illness is confirmed through medical or laboratory testing, the appropriate inspection staff will conduct a specific "foodborne illness investigation."
Types of Violations
During an inspection, sanitarians verify that the food establishment is in compliance with applicable rules and regulations pertaining to the type of licensed establishment. The inspection report will indicate whether the establishment is "in compliance (IN)" or "out of compliance (OUT)" with the requirement. The inspection report has a “Y” for in compliance and an “N” for out of compliance.
Inspection Reports
Information regarding establishment inspections, definitions, and violations cited with short violation descriptions are available to view here. On any given day, an establishment could have more or fewer violations than noted here. The inspection results may not be representative of the overall food safety of an establishment. At the time of the inspection, violations are recorded but are often corrected on-the-spot prior to the inspector leaving the establishment.
Food Processing Plant Requirements
Nebraska Pure Food Act §81-2,280 Registration (LB304 / "Cottage Food" Law)
Online Payment for Food Establishment Inspection Fee