Texas § HS.438.014 - STERILIZATION OF FOOD SERVICE ITEMS
Full text of Texas The Texas Constitution § HS.438.014 — STERILIZATION OF FOOD SERVICE ITEMS, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ HS.438.014. STERILIZATION OF FOOD SERVICE ITEMS
STERILIZATION OF FOOD SERVICE ITEMS. (a) After cleaning dishes, receptacles, utensils, food-grinding machines, and implements as required by Section 438.012 or 438.013 , the items shall be: (1) placed in a wire cage and immersed in a still bath of clear water for at least: (A) three minutes in water heated to a minimum temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit; or (B) two minutes in water heated to a minimum temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit; (2) immersed for at least two minutes in a lukewarm chlorine bath made up at a strength of 100 parts per milliliter or more of hypochlorites and not reduced to less than 50 parts per milliliter available chlorine, or a concentration of equal bacteriacidal strength if chloramines are used; or (3) sterilized by any other chemical method approved by the department. (b) A three-compartment vat shall be used to sterilize dishes, receptacles, and utensils if a chlorine solution is used. The first compartment of the vat shall be used for washing, the second compartment for plain rinsing, and the third compartment for chlorine immersion. A satisfactory rinsing or spraying device may be substituted for the second rinsing compartment on an existing installation. (c) The same chlorine solution may not be used as bacteriacidal treatment for more than one day. (d) After sterilization, all dishes, receptacles, and utensils shall be stored in a manner that protects the food service items from contaminants. (e) Subsections (a)-(d) do not apply to an establishment that uses electrically operated dishwashing and glasswashing machines that clean and sterilize mechanically. Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989. Amended by: Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219 ), Sec. 3.1131, eff. April 2, 2015.
Source: official Texas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas § HS.438.014
What does The Texas Constitution § HS.438.014 cover?
Section HS.438.014 ("STERILIZATION OF FOOD SERVICE ITEMS") is part of the The Texas Constitution, the codified statutory law of Texas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Texas § HS.438.014?
A common citation format is "The Texas Constitution § HS.438.014" (Texas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Texas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Texas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Texas attorney.
How does Texas § HS.438.014 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Texas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Texas.