Food Safety

Our team of Registered Sanitarians conducts unannounced routine inspections of all licensed food establishments, including restaurants, bars, deli's, grocery stores, schools, and long term care facilities in Stratford. The inspections, along with education, works to protect the public from foodborne illnesses. The Stratford Health Department follows the State and Local Public Health Codes Connecticut Public Health Code 19-13-B42 and Town of Stratford Food Code 105

Consumers can help by reporting unsanitary practices observed in food establishments to the Health Department at mwhelan@townofstratford.com 203.385.4090. Consumers can also check out our Food Safety at Home section for important tips on how to prevent foodborne illnesses at home.


Food-borne Illness

Food-borne illnesses are a serious problem in the United States. While our food supply is considered safe, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 76 million Americans become sick each year. It is also estimated that over 300,000 of those Americans become hospitalized, and 5,000 die as a result of food-borne illness. Nearly 80% of food-borne illnesses are traced to food prepared in commercial or institutional environments, highlighting the need for routine inspections. The elderly, very young, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at greater risk from food-borne illness.