Authority/Regulation

The authority to inspect food establishments begins in law. Below is a link to the Missouri General Assembly’s website and specifically Chapter 196 Food, Drugs and Tobacco. Rules and regulations provide the standard with which to inspect facilities. The Missouri standard is based off the model food code developed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In Chapter 192, RSMo, local public health agencies in Missouri are granted the authority to adopt local food ordinances that are equal to or more stringent than current state regulations. To determine if your local health agency has their own food ordinance, please contact your local health department.