No, Iowa is NOT scaling back restaurant inspections, contrary to journalist' claims.

One story, and corresponding Tweet, started a firestorm in Iowa: “The state of Iowa is planning to dramatically scale back the routine inspection of restaurants and other food-service establishments by making only one onsite inspection every five years." But is that accurate? "No, that is not accurate," says Jessica Dunker, CEO of The Iowa Restaurant Association. 

Dunker debunks the wild story saying, "it's the biggest non-story, story we've had in a while." She presents the data explaining why restaurants are far safer than you probably think. For example, did you know every restaurant in the state has a certified food protection manager on staff? Most restaurants actually have one per shift. Surprising, right?

The incorrect article came with its share of finger-pointing and outrage, but it was wrong. And it couldn't have been published at a worse time as restaurants across Iowa struggle to get back on their feet post-pandemic and are now facing rising costs of operation.

Can we help? Yes. And it starts with a plate of french fries... pass the ketchup. 

See the show notes and safety category breakdowns here: https://iowapodcast.com/jessica-dunker-no-iowa-cut-back-on-restaurant-inspections

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