Restaurant Inspection Results
Albuquerque Restaurants & Food Inspections
What is a Restaurant Inspection?
Routine inspections at food establishments are a "snapshot" of food safety operations on the particular day they are done. Critical and non-critical violations are recorded on an inspection form. Critical violations are factors that have been identified as items that could potentially cause a food borne illness. Most critical violations are typically corrected on the spot. However, some critical violations require additional time for compliance.
Are Only Restaurants Inspected?
All food service establishments receive routine inspections to ensure they are safe and sanitary. The frequency of inspections may be increased based on past performance of the food service establishment and other laws; service of high-risk foods such as oysters, shellfish, or sushi; or service practices such a buffet or serving a high-risk population (elderly, infants).
What is the Difference Between a Green, Yellow or Red Sticker?
All food service establishments must display the current grade sticker in a visible location. You will typically see the grade on the front door at eye level or lower or on drive-thru window. Mobile food service establishments may display the grade on their outside menu board or window.
If you see a green approved sticker, it means that the food service establishment received a passing grade at their last inspection. This means they have demonstrated skills and knowledge that create a safe and sanitary food service environment.
If you see a yellow sticker as well as a green approved sticker, it means that the food service establishment is able to operate, conditionally, but is required to follow a plan to correct violations observed during their inspection. The establishment must show proof of corrected violations in order to be in compliance with the Albuquerque Food Service and Retail Ordinance. Sometimes, an establishment just needs a little additional time to correct. However, it is important to note that the establishment is approved to operate while corrections take place.
If you see a red unsatisfactory sticker, it means that the food service establishment has been downgraded for non-compliance with the Albuquerque Food Service and Retail Ordinance.
Food service establishments can still operate with a red sticker; however, downgraded food service establishments have five (5) days to contact us for a re-inspection before we suspend their operating permit. Most food service establishments correct the critical violations and contact us within 24 hours. If a food service establishment is downgraded more than 3 times in a three-year period, their permit is immediately suspended.
What Food Code does the City of Albuquerque follow?
The City of Albuquerque follows the 2022 Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Food Code and the Albuquerque Food Service and Retail Ordinance.
To obtain assistance, please call 505-768-2716