In Missouri, retail food establishments are regulated by both the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and local health agencies. We statewide standards and provides guidance training and support, while the local public health agencies handle the routine food safety inspections and everyday enforcement. The local health departments work closely with food establishments. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants, food pantries, schools, shelters, caterers, mobile food vendors, farmer’s market booths, concession stands and vending machine operations.
Missouri uses a food code based on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) model. The FDA model food code applies a science-based approach to retail food safety standards. Many local jurisdictions follow this same model or the Missouri version of it. However, counties and cities can adopt stricter rules if they choose. Some may require food manager or food handler training, charge permitting fees or issue fines for violations. Requirements can vary quite a bit depending on where you plan to operate. Contact your local health department for their specific rules, permit process and any training or inspections.