Food Safety

BUDS follows the food safety policies, procedures and guidelines contained in the Company’s HACCP/Food Safety Program Manual.

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is a management system that ensures food safety through the identification, evaluation and control of biological, chemical, and physical hazards throughout all stages of the food process- from raw material production, procurement and handling, to manufacturing, distribution and consumption of the finished product.

All BUDS employees are trained in the use of HAACP monitoring systems and safety procedures to maintain food safety at every point of the food service system – from delivery to plate. This includes routinely measuring and recording temperatures of food during cooking, holding, cooling and storage in refrigerators, freezers and warmers to ensure full compliance with food safety standards.

BUDS participates in nationally accredited food safety training programs, such as SERV Safe and Aller Train, which all of our managers and leads are certified in every 3 years.

Fundamentals of HAACP training are provided to all employees during new hire orientation and are refreshed annually for all other employees.

In addition, ongoing food safety training is conducted monthly and during daily huddles, covering a variety of topics to promote awareness and compliance with food safety standards.

A comprehensive monthly food safety audit is conducted at each BUDS dining location and reviewed with the employees to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with established standards.

EcoSure, a third-party audit company, serves as a critical internal control by providing an independent and unbiased evaluation of our food safety practices. These yearly audits help to ensure that BUDS consistently meets or exceeds the highest industry quality assurance standards.

Additionally, Broome County Department of Health conducts an annual inspection of all dining locations, complementing our internal and third-party food safety audits to maintain the highest level of food safety and regulatory compliance

BUDS partners exclusively with food vendors that have been approved through a rigorous process to ensure they meet all required food safety, hygiene and legal standards. This includes verification of appropriate licensing and certifications and compliance with relevant regulatory requirements.

The Food Recovery Network was founded in 2011 by a group of college students who work with colleges, universities, farms and food businesses to redirect surplus food to feed the community.

In response to concerns regarding student food insecurity, BUDS enacted a single- serve frozen meal program, distributing meals to the on-campus Food Pantry. These meals may include a complete meal or just a grain, vegetable or protein servingl

If you suspect a problem with your food or have any questions or concerns, please ask to speak with a manager on duty right away. Once campus management is notified of a concern, immediate action is taken to investigate and address the issue as quickly as possible.

You can also visit our Feedback page, send a text to share your feedback or report an issue promptly- we value your input and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.