In recognition of September’s National Food Safety Education Month, several restaurants were recognized for outstanding food safety practices at a Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 15.

These businesses were selected by the Environmental Management Department to represent nearly 700 restaurants that earned an Award of Excellence in Food Safety certificate countywide.

To qualify for the award, a food-service operation must not have any major food-safety violations in its three most recent health inspections.

Inspections are unannounced and completed up to three times a year.

EMD inspects approximately 5,500 restaurants, retail markets, bakeries, bars and schools for food safety compliance annually.

Jack’s Urban Eats, located at 2756 East Bidwell St. in Folsom, was one of two food facilities in district 4 recognized for their excellent food safety record. Supervisor Roberta MacGlashan presented the certificate to co-owner Greg Virga, who operates three area Jack’s Urban Eats restaurants with partner Tony Babcock.

Another Folsom favorite, Guido’s Deli and Wine Shop at 300 Reading Street, was also recognized. Owned and operated by Bob and Colleen Relei, the facility is a favorite of EMD’s health inspectors for their exceptional cleanliness and cooperation. The Releis were unable to attend the presentation.

Among the 700 food facilities countywide earning a certificate were Thai Siam Restaurant, 705 Gold Lake Drive, Folsom; La Placita Restaurant, 9272 Greenback Lane, Orangevale; Sunrise Bagel Bakery & Café, 5489 Sunrise Blvd, Citrus Heights; and WinCo Foods, 4137 Elverta Road, Antelope.

EMD director Val Siebal said the award recipients have clearly demonstrated a continuous commitment to high standards of food safety in their establishments.

“The Environmental Management Department recognizes the hard work and diligence of employees and management to earn this award,” said Siebal.

You can view a listing of all award recipients and learn more about the award criteria at www.emd.SacCounty.net/EH/EMDFoodSafetyAwards.htm.