Safety Resources

Federal Resources

• The Food Safety and Inspection Service– The Food Safety and Inspection Service is the public health agency in the US Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that the nation’s commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention– The CDC provides users with credible, reliable health information.
• US Food and Drug Administration– The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of our nation’s food supply.
• FDA 2013 Food Code– FDA’s best advice for a uniform system that addresses the safety and protection of food offered at the retail level and in food service establishments.

State Resources

• MA Food Protection Program– The Food Protection Program strives to ensure a safe and wholesome food supply in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• State Sanitary Code for Retail Food Establishments (105 CMR 590)– This section of the state food code relates to retail food establishments including meal programs.
• Massachusetts Health Officers Association– Locate contact information for your local Board of Health.

Educational Resources

• Massachusetts Partnership for Food Safety Education– The Massachusetts Partnership for Food Safety Education represents and works with over 5,000 food and regulatory members to reduce food-borne illness in Massachusetts by improving food safety knowledge and skills.
• Food Allergy Research and Education– Resources on managing food allergens.
• Partnership for Food Safety Education– The Partnership is comprised of 18 associations and nonprofit organizations that work together to build consensus on messages and strategy regarding food safety.
• Cooking for Groups– A guide for volunteers who are preparing food for large groups like congregate meals, church dinners and community gatherings.

Hand Washing

• Lessons and handouts for children
• Handwashing Signs (multiple languages available)

The state of Massachusetts now requires all establishments who need ServSafe® certification to undergo Food Allergy Awareness Training. To purchase and view the online video from the National Restaurant Association, click here.

GBFB handles foods that may contain: peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, eggs, fish, shellfish, milk, and/or sesame.

GBFB aims to efficiently manage recalls by cross-checking our inventory as well as notifying Member Agencies through email, the message board when you visit our building, and our website. For the latest food safety recalls, visit ShopGBFB or see the FDA listing.