Food Service Standards
The Board of Health is charged with the responsibility of protecting the public from food-borne illness through a sound public health food protection program.
This is accomplished through licensure, inspection, and enforcement of compliance with regulations governing retail food and food service establishments.
In accordance with state regulations, the Northbridge Board of Health conducts semi-annual inspections of all food establishments. The Board also responds to consumer inquiries and complaints regarding food sanitation practices, illnesses, and other public health issues.
Click on the name of the Food Establishment below to view their most recent food establishment inspection report (reports are being added as they are completed effective July 1st, 2019):
Certificate of Merit Program
The Board of Health has temporarily ceased the Certificate of Merit Program - to view prior year recipients, please click on the links below.
2018 CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS
2017 CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS
2016 CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS
2015 CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS
2014 CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS
Residential Kitchens for Cottage Foods
Residential kitchens are strictly limited to the preparation of foods that are non time/temperature controls for food safety (non-TCS) foods, such as baked goods, confectioneries, jams and jellies.
The preparation and sale of time/temperature controlled foods such as cream-filled pastries, cheesecake, custard, and other foods which can support the growth of disease-causing bacteria are strictly prohibited.
All Residential Kitchens must be licensed, inspected, and approved by the Board of Health.
Residential Kitchens - Frequently Asked Questions
Residential Kitchens - Food Code Standards
Bake Sales
The State Food Code, 105 CMR 590, under the definition of Food Establishment, uses the term "bake sale" as an example of something that is not defined as a food establishment. The specific text reads as follows:
A residential kitchen if only food that is not time/temperature control for safety food, is prepared for sale or service at a function such as a religious or charitable organization’s bake sale if allowed by law and if the consumer is informed by a clearly visible placard at the sales or service location that the food is prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to regulation and inspection by the regulatory authority.
As an added precaution, if preparing food for a bake sale, please be sure to note any allergens that may be included in the ingredients of the baked products being sold. (See Food Allergen Awareness Training section below for details on current food allergens)
Some Helpful Links