Shelby County Health Department inspects food establishments under Memphis-Shelby Sapphire grading. Scores are posted at the entrance and published online so diners can see the latest health inspection rating before entering.
All food service establishments in Memphis are inspected by the Shelby County Health Department's Food Safety program at least twice per year. Inspections follow the Tennessee Food Safety Rules (Chapter 1200-23-01) and use a 100-point scale. Critical violations (cold-holding, hand-washing, cross-contamination) are weighted heavily. Scores of 70 or below trigger a re-inspection within 10 days, and a failing grade can lead to closure. Establishments must post the current score card at the public entrance, and inspection results are searchable through the Shelby County Health Department's online food inspection portal.
Failure to post the inspection score at the entrance, scoring below 70 without correcting violations, or operating without a permit can lead to suspension of the food permit and closure of the establishment until re-inspection.
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