Catering Service and Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]

This catering service and event food safety checklist ensures compliance with FDA Food Code 2022 Catering Operations requirements. Catering Manager / Executive Chefs use this checklist to maintain standards, document compliance, and protect the organization from regulatory and operational risk.

  • Industry: Food Service / Events
  • Frequency: Per Catering Event
  • Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
  • Role: Catering Manager / Executive Chef
  • Total Items: 20
  • Compliance: FDA Food Code 2022 Catering Operations, State Catering License Requirements, ServSafe Manager Certification, OSHA 29 CFR General Duty

Pre-Inspection and Documentation Review

Review records, prior findings, and regulatory requirements before beginning.

  • Required documentation and permits available for review?
  • Prior inspection findings and corrective actions verified?
  • Qualified personnel assigned for this inspection?
  • Required pre-inspection notifications made?

Primary Compliance Checks

Core inspection items for this category.

  • Compliance with primary regulatory requirements verified?
  • Operational procedures documented and being followed?
  • All staff currently trained and certified as required?
  • Equipment, systems, and facilities in compliant condition?
  • No active complaints, violations, or outstanding corrective actions?

Secondary and Supporting Requirements

Additional compliance verification items.

  • Records, logs, and reports current and complete?
  • Emergency procedures current and staff trained?
  • Preventive maintenance schedule current for all equipment?
  • Third-party certifications, audits, or inspections current?

Findings and Corrective Actions

Document findings and establish corrective action plans.

  • Any deficiencies, non-conformances, or violations found?
  • Corrective actions assigned with due dates and owners?
  • Photo documentation captured?
  • Inspection summary and recommendations

Inspection Closeout

Complete inspection record and schedule follow-up.

  • All checklist items completed?
  • Supervisor review and sign-off obtained?
  • Next inspection date confirmed?

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Why Use This Catering Service and Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This catering service and event food safety checklist [free pdf] helps food service / events teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for catering manager / executive chef professionals, this checklist covers 20 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per catering event.

Ensures compliance with FDA Food Code 2022 Catering Operations, State Catering License Requirements, ServSafe Manager Certification, OSHA 29 CFR General Duty. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Catering Service and Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF] cover?

This checklist covers 20 inspection items across 5 sections: Pre-Inspection and Documentation Review, Primary Compliance Checks, Secondary and Supporting Requirements, Findings and Corrective Actions, Inspection Closeout. It is designed for food service / events operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per catering event. Each completion takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Who should use this Catering Service and Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This checklist is designed for Catering Manager / Executive Chef professionals in the food service / events industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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