IDoH releases new Food Code

The Indiana Department of Health has announced the release of the latest Food Code, 410 IAC 7-26, which will take effect on April 16, 2025. A phased enforcement period will begin, accompanied by educational outreach that will continue throughout the remainder of the year. Additional information will be shared on our social media pages and emailed to our registered contacts.

This document outlines the most significant changes to the Indiana Retail Food Establishment Sanitation requirements (410 IAC 7-26).

Food Services

The Food Unit of the St. Joseph County Department of Health is charged with enforcing the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Retail Food Sanitation Requirements 410 IAC 7-26, Certification of Food Handler Requirements 410 IAC 7-22 for the Certified Food Protection Manager, and Schedule of Civil Penalties 410 IAC 7-23 and Chapter 117: St. Joseph County Food Establishments.

Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Food Protection Division adopted 410 IAC 7-26, the Retail Food Establishment Sanitation Requirements, effective 4/16/2025. Changes in 410 IAC 7-26 include, but are not limited to, these rules, protocols, and top changes listed here.

In St. Joseph County, there are 1,600 permitted establishments that receive unannounced inspections routinely throughout the year to ensure the retail food establishments follow safe food handling practices.

Additionally, food vendors participating in temporary events (fairs, etc.) receive inspections during the event.

During foodborne illness outbreak investigations, the food unit collaborates with the nursing unit, epidemiologist, and IDOH field epidemiologist. Investigation of other non-foodborne illness complaints is completed when the complainant provides the date and time of the visit to the retail food establishment.