The Virginia Department of Health's food safety program is dedicated to promoting safe practices in food establishments, mobile units, and at temporary events. We work with restaurant operators and food vendors to reduce the occurrence of risk factors that may cause foodborne illnesses. Our program focuses on strengthening regulation and policies for prevention of foodborne illness; educating public health professionals, food service employees, and consumers on safe practices; and responding to foodborne illness outbreaks and food-related emergencies.
Any individual or entity that serves food to the public (if not exempt or under the jurisdiction of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) is required to obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the Virginia Department of Health.