Sous Vide Food Safety Checklist

Comprehensive sous vide food safety checklist for HACCP-based sous vide operations including critical time-temperature controls and documentation.

  • Industry: Food Service
  • Frequency: Per batch
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Chef/Kitchen Manager
  • Total Items: 31
  • Compliance: FDA Food Code, HACCP Variance, Douglas Baldwin Guidelines

Equipment Verification

Sous vide equipment

  • Immersion circulator calibrated?
  • Vacuum sealer functioning properly?
  • Probe thermometer calibrated?

Preparation

Pre-cooking steps

  • Product fresh and within date?
  • Product properly portioned for cooking?
  • Vacuum-sealed without leaks?

Cooking Parameters

Time-temperature control

  • Water bath at correct temperature?
  • Cooking time per validated recipe?
  • Time and temperature logged?

Post-Cooking

After cooking

  • Searing/finishing at safe temp (if applicable)?
  • Rapid chilling if not serving immediately?
  • Proper storage with date labels?

Pre-Inspection Information

Initial inspection details and documentation

  • Inspector Name
  • Inspection Date
  • Location / Kitchen Area
  • Inspection Type (Routine/Follow-up/Complaint)
  • Previous inspection date and findings reviewed?

Temperature Control & Monitoring

Verify all temperature-sensitive equipment and food items

  • Refrigerator temperature at or below 41°F (5°C)?
  • Freezer temperature at or below 0°F (-18°C)?
  • Hot holding foods at or above 135°F (57°C)?
  • Thermometers calibrated and functional?
  • Temperature logs current and properly maintained?

Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention

Proper food handling practices and contamination prevention

  • Proper handwashing observed (20 seconds, soap)?
  • Gloves used properly for ready-to-eat foods?
  • Raw and cooked foods properly separated?
  • Color-coded cutting boards used correctly?
  • Allergen cross-contact controls in place?

Food Storage & Labeling

Proper storage, rotation, and labeling of food items

  • FIFO (First In, First Out) rotation followed?
  • All items properly date-labeled?
  • Food stored 6 inches off floor?
  • No expired products in storage?

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Why Use This Sous Vide Food Safety Checklist?

This sous vide food safety checklist helps food service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for chef/kitchen manager professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: per batch.

Ensures compliance with FDA Food Code, HACCP Variance, Douglas Baldwin Guidelines. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Sous Vide Food Safety Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 8 sections: Equipment Verification, Preparation, Cooking Parameters, Post-Cooking, Pre-Inspection Information, Temperature Control & Monitoring, Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention, Food Storage & Labeling. It is designed for food service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per batch. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Sous Vide Food Safety Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Chef/Kitchen Manager professionals in the food service 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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