Kathy is ordering equipment for her restaurant that will come in contact with food. She should order equipment certified by which organization?

Ordering equipment certified by the National Standards Foundation (NSF) is essential for ensuring that the equipment is safe and suitable for food contact. NSF certification indicates that the equipment meets strict public health and safety standards, which are critical in the food service industry. This certification process involves rigorous testing and inspections to verify that materials used in the equipment do not leach harmful substances into food and can withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen setting.

Using NSF-certified equipment helps restaurant owners like Kathy ensure compliance with health regulations and enhances consumer confidence in the safety and quality of the food served. This is particularly important in the culinary industry, where food safety is a top priority.

The other organizations mentioned do not specifically focus on the certification of food equipment. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) primarily deals with public health and disease prevention, the National Restaurant Association (NRA) focuses on representing restaurant owners and advocating for their interests, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees farming and agriculture regulations rather than the certification of equipment for food service.