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CCore · FDA Food Code 3-305.11 · 30-90 days (Core)

How to fix: Food Stored on the Floor

Food or food containers were found stored directly on the floor in a storage room, walk-in cooler, or freezer.

What this violation means

FDA Food Code 3-305.11 requires that food be stored at least 6 inches off the floor to protect it from splash, contamination from cleaning operations, and moisture from the floor surface. Food placed directly on the floor is also inaccessible for proper cleaning of the floor area underneath, which leads to buildup of soil and pests. This Core violation is among the most commonly cited and is easily corrected with proper shelving or pallets.

Step-by-step: how to fix this before re-inspection

1Move all food and food containers onto shelves or approved pallets at least 6 inches off the floor immediately
2Measure shelf height in all storage areas — any shelving lower than 6 inches must be raised or replaced
3Install additional shelving or NSF-approved wire racks if storage space is insufficient
4Train staff that nothing edible or in food-grade packaging may touch the floor at any time

What the inspector rechecks at re-inspection

WHAT THE INSPECTOR CHECKS

Inspectors do not just look at the surface. For this violation, expect them to verify:

☐Walks through all storage areas, walk-in coolers, and freezers looking for any food or food-container contact with the floor
☐Checks bulk dry goods (flour, sugar, oil) stored in the dry-storage area
☐Looks at cases of produce, canned goods, and bottled beverages for direct floor contact
☐Verifies that shelving throughout storage areas is at least 6 inches off the ground

How to prevent this violation from recurring

Include "no food on the floor" in new-hire kitchen orientation
Add a floor-storage check to the daily walk-through checklist
Ensure receiving procedures specify that cases must be placed on shelves or pallets immediately after delivery

Related violations to check

Flies in Food Prep or Service Area — Openings Not Protected→Cross-Contamination — Raw Animal Food Over Ready-to-Eat→
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This document is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not guarantee a passing re-inspection score. Always verify requirements with your local health department. Fix steps are based on FDA Food Code 3-305.11; individual jurisdictions may have additional requirements.

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