Official Health Data
Updated Weekly
100% Verified Information
CleanKitchens.org Government Inspection Data

Our Data Sources

Transparency is core to our mission. Learn exactly where our health inspection data comes from.

All restaurant inspection data on CleanKitchens.org is sourced directly from official government health departments. We never alter inspection results or scores.

How We Collect Data

CleanKitchens.org collects restaurant health inspection data through several official channels:

  1. Public Records APIs: Many health departments now offer API (Application Programming Interface) access to their inspection data. We connect directly to these APIs to import the most current information.
  2. Open Data Portals: We access state and municipal open data portals that publish inspection results in machine-readable formats.
  3. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests: For jurisdictions without readily available digital access, we file formal requests for data under public records laws.
  4. Direct Partnerships: In some cases, we work directly with health departments to establish data sharing protocols that benefit the public.

Our data collection processes are automated wherever possible to ensure timely updates while minimizing human error.

Currently Covered Jurisdictions

We currently provide health inspection data for the following states and jurisdictions:

We're continuously expanding our coverage to include more states and municipalities. Check back regularly for updates.

Data Freshness & Update Schedule

We strive to provide the most current information available. Our update schedule varies by jurisdiction:

  • API-Connected Jurisdictions: Data typically updated within 24-48 hours of release
  • Open Data Portal Sources: Updated weekly
  • FOIA-Requested Data: Updated monthly or as new data becomes available

Each restaurant listing displays a "Last Updated" timestamp to indicate data freshness.

Understanding Data Limitations

We're committed to transparency about limitations in our data:

  • Reporting Delays: There can be delays between when inspections occur and when the data is made public.
  • Jurisdictional Differences: Different health departments use different scoring systems, violation categories, and reporting methods.
  • Follow-up Inspections: Some jurisdictions may not immediately report follow-up inspections where violations were corrected.
  • Data Gaps: Occasional gaps may appear due to technical issues with source data.

We make every effort to note these limitations within our restaurant listings when relevant.