AB 619: Reusable Containers: Multiuse Utensils Amendments to Sections 114121 and 114353 of the California Retail Food Code (FAQs)

On July 12, 2019 AB 619 amended the subject sections of the California Retail Food Code (Cal Code). Section 114121 provides for the return and reuse of food and beverage storage containers in a retail food facility. Section 114353 addresses multiuse utensils at temporary food facilities.

Q: What has changed with Section 114121 regarding return and reuse of storage containers?

A: This section allows consumers to bring reusable containers to a food facility to be filled, provided certain conditions are met. Clean customer owned containers may be filled by an employee or the customer. Added to the section are three requirements: 1) Consumer-owned containers must be isolated from the serving surface or the surface must be sanitized after each filling. 2) Food facility is required to prepare, maintain and adhere to written procedures to prevent cross contamination. 3) Compliance with Cal Code handwashing requirements required.

Q: What has changed with Section 114353 regarding multiuse utensils at temporary food facilities operating at recognized special events?

A: Previously Cal Code required that only single use utensils be provided to the consumer. This section has been amended to allow temporary food facilities to use multiuse utensils where conditions are favorable for washing and sanitizing in the temporary food facility or at an approved permanent food facility.

Contact the Monterey County Health Department-Environmental Health Bureau in Salinas at (831) 755-4508 or Monterey at (831) 647-7654 with any question or for more information.