NYC Health Department Reminds of Guidelines in Wake of Storm

Many restaurants are serving without power

By James Mulcahy

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene issued a reminder to city eateries that they are still on the beat, ready to enforce rules and regulations. We obtained an email from an official at the agency, who reminded city establishments to stay vigilant about food safety, nothing that the DOH can still shut establishments down.

"We have inspectors in the field, primarily in areas that were flooded and without electricity, to provide guidance on safe operations. We are not citing violations or issuing grades, but will close establishments that do not comply with minimal safety precautions.


Today, we had a protracted discussion with an operator who refused our inspector access for the consult. He was making pizza with cheese and sauce that was not under refrigeration since Monday evening. Ultimately, he agreed to discard the food and voluntarily close until new ingredients could be delivered."

The agency put together a special document detailing the guidelines for operating in a zone without power, view those here. They also issued rules about reopening following Hurricane Sandy, you can check out that info below and get updates on the DOH's website. Reopening Post Sandy