What is primarily assessed during food inspection in NYC?

During food inspections in New York City, the primary focus is on identifying critical violations of the Health Code. These critical violations can significantly impact food safety and public health, such as improper food handling, unsafe temperature control, and lack of sanitation. Inspectors prioritize these violations because they pose immediate risks for contamination, foodborne illness, and other health hazards.

By identifying and addressing critical violations, health inspectors aim to enforce compliance with food safety regulations, which ultimately helps protect consumers. While factors like restaurant design, employee uniforms, and marketing practices may be relevant in the broader context of business operations, they are not the focal points during inspections aimed specifically at ensuring food safety. Thus, assessing critical violations is crucial for maintaining public health standards in food establishments.