Priority violation is a major violation that directly contributes to increasing the risk of foodborne illness or injury.

e.g. - Food employees do not properly wash hands when required

Priority foundation violation is a minor violation that does not directly contribute to an increased risk of foodborne illness but failure to correct this violation may lead to the occurrence of a priority violation.

e.g.- Hand washing soap and paper towels not available at hand wash sink (may lead directly to food employees not properly washing hands when required)

Core violation is a minor violation that relates to general maintenance and sanitation.

e.g. -No sign reminding employees to wash hands

Verification Visits are inspections of establishments enrolled in the MCESD Cutting Edge Program, which requires an enhanced food safety program and ongoing demonstration of active managerial control. Verification Visit inspections found in compliance with Cutting Edge program requirements receive an “A” grade.

The matrix below has been used to grade food inspections under the voluntary grading system starting on October 14, 2011.