How do I get licensed to cook food in my own home for sale to the public? There is a process for turning your home kitchen into a commercially licensed facility. First, it involves approval by the Zoning Department 720-865-3000 to determine if your neighborhood is zoned for that type of business. Second, it requires that the kitchen be designed and constructed to meet all commercial kitchen requirements.Third, your new kitchen must not be an access way for other parts of your home(garage, living room, bath, etc.).Fourth, your new kitchen must have an outside access for deliveries and service and it's own bathroom. Fifth, your family and friends cannot use the kitchen unless they are engaged in the commercial use ot the kitchen. Sixth, your new kitchen will require periodic inspections.

Why are gloves not required in food handling or sandwich making? Glove use is not required unless the individual handling the food has a cut or burn that needs to be protected. Gloves are not a substitute for regular and thorough handwashing. Food handlers may not feel the dirt or contamination on a glove as they would on their bare hands and can contaminate surfaces more easily.

Are hair nets required for food handlers? No, any type of effective hair restraining device (cap, scarf, chef hat, hair tie, etc.) can be worn. It should be noted that there are no known food borne illness outbreaks linked to hair in food, although its presence can indicate careless hygiene and it can be unpleasant to discover.

Can I find out about specific inspect information on a restaurant? Yes, files are public. You need to contact the Public Health Inspection Division at 720-865-5401 and make an appointment to view the files you are interested in.

Why do stores leave food and milk on their shelves after the expiration date is expired? "Sell by" and "Best used by" dates are recommendations of the manufacturer to help maintain the quality of the product. Foods sold past these dates are not necessarily unsafe. Baby formula is the only food with strict date guidelines.

Are beards and mustaches allowed for food handlers? Yes, as long as they do not pose a food safety problem. it is recommended as with head hair that a hair restraining device be worn.

How do I become a restaurant inspector? Inspectors are required to have a bachelors degree in public health, biology, nursing, environmental health or a related field. Hiring is done through the Career Service Authority. Our staff has a diverse academic and working background mixture. More and more health departments are looking for people with practical experience in the areas they inspect-milk production, food manufacturing, culinary science, etc.

Are long nails acceptable when handling food? No, long nails can harbor harmful bacteria under them and they are very difficult to clean. Artificial nails pose the same problem and can fall off into the food that is being handled.