Wayland Looks To Broaden Food Safety Inspections

WAYLAND, MA — The Wayland Board of Health may expand food safety regulations to include stores that sell non-refrigerated, prepackaged foods. The town will hold a hearing on the proposed rule in January.

The Board of Health stopped inspecting stores that sell prepackaged, nonperishable foods in October 2018 after the state adopted a new food safety code. Vending machines will not be inspected, but the new rule would apply to stores like gas stations that only sell items like chips, snacks, and canned food.

"Routine inspections by the Health Department include checking for expired products, pest issues such as rodents and roaches, restroom sanitation and supplies," according to the Board of Health.

The proposed rule will be discussed on Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Board of Health, 41 Cochituate Road.