A woman posing as a health inspector was reported at Whole Foods Market in Kahala Mall, Honolulu. The incident occurred on November 7, 2024, when the woman, described as having dark hair, approached an employee and began asking questions about the store's food products.
Upon being asked for identification and credentials by the staff, the woman left the premises. In response to this event, the Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food Safety Branch issued reminders to the food service industry regarding proper identification of inspectors.
The DOH stated that their badges include the inspector’s name, job title, expiration date, and photograph. Food establishments are advised to refuse entry if an individual cannot present a valid DOH ID badge. Inspectors are also expected to carry equipment necessary for conducting inspections.
The department emphasized that managers or persons-in-charge should examine badges and can verify identities by contacting the Food Safety Branch at 808-586-8000. They urged all food establishments to ensure anyone claiming to be a DOH employee has official identification with a valid expiration date.
The DOH Food Safety Branch is responsible for protecting and promoting public health through education and regulation of food establishments across Hawai‘i. This includes routine inspections of places where food is prepared, manufactured, distributed, or sold.
Further information on the department’s placarding program can be found at http://health.hawaii.gov/san/.