For Immediate Release
JUNE 12, 2002

Contact: Pat Markley
(714) 834-2178

(Santa Ana) – More than 1,100 Orange County food establishments were recently recognized for excellent food preparation standards and sanitation practices by the Orange County Health Care Agency’s Food Protection Program.

The Award of Excellence program was initiated in 1999 to provide an incentive for food establishments to consistently meet or exceed the health and safety standards of food facility operations. The award provides a way to acknowledge the consistency of facilities that are in compliance with California’s food safety requirements. Certificates are issued to establishments that have not received any violation that presents an immediate danger to the public’s health and safety during the program’s evaluation period.

“The program is an excellent opportunity to encourage food establishments to consistently meet the requirements for operating a safe and healthy food establishment,” said Julie Poulson, Director of the Health Care Agency. “The certificate of excellence further acknowledges the dedication of each recipient and highlights their diligent efforts in preventing any violations.”

To view a complete listing of Award of Excellence recipients categorized by city, visit the Health Care Agency’s Environmental Health Web site at www.ocfoodinfo.com.

HCA’s Food Protection Program focuses on the inspection of retail food facilities in order to promote the safe and sanitary preparation and service of foods, prevent food borne illness, and protect consumers from adulterated, mislabeled or fraudulently advertised food products. For further information, call the Food Protection Program Hotline at (714) 433-6000.

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