16J — Sodium-warning icon not posted
Chain restaurants must place the sodium warning icon next to menu items that contain at least a full day's worth of sodium (2,300 mg or more). The icon warns diners that one item alone hits the daily sodium limit. It's a non-scored nutrition item (0 grade points) but citable. The miss is usually a high-sodium combo or large item that qualifies but has no icon. Identify which items cross the threshold and keep the icon posted right next to each of them on the menu and board.
What the inspector looks for
If you're a covered chain, look for the sodium (salt) warning icon — a triangle/saltshaker symbol — next to any menu item that meets or exceeds the full-day sodium limit (2,300 mg). A qualifying high-sodium item with no icon beside it is the violation. (Non-scored nutrition item.)
How it's scored
This is an administrative item — it is not scored toward your A/B/C letter grade, but it can still be cited on an inspection.
How to fix it
Post the required sodium-warning icon next to qualifying high-sodium menu items.
How to prevent it
Identify menu items at or above the sodium threshold and keep the compliant warning icon posted.
- ✓If you're a covered chain, calculate which items reach 2,300 mg sodium and flag each with the warning icon.
- ✓Place the icon directly next to the item name on every menu and menu board where it appears.
- ✓Re-evaluate sodium when recipes, portion sizes, or suppliers change.
- ✓Keep the accompanying "high in sodium" warning statement posted as required.
Reference: Health Code §81.49(b)(1)
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