To ensure the highest standards of food safety, Feeding America requires member food banks to meet rigorous American Institute of Baking International (AIB) standards. AIB food safety standards fall into five categories: cleaning, food safety, maintenance, operations and pest control. 

The protocol requires the completion of an AIB audit every two years. A minimum passing score is 700, with a maximum possible score of 1000. The Food Bank of Iowa Ottumwa distribution center completed their audit February 23. Food Bank of Iowa is proud to announce an audit score of 910, ranking toward the top of all U.S. inspected facilities.

“Food safety is top priority at Food Bank of Iowa. Folks who struggle to put food on the table simply cannot endure a foodborne illness,” said Michelle Book, president and CEO at Food Bank of Iowa. “Food Bank of Iowa is trusted to deliver safe nutrition when neighbors need it most. We protect the integrity of food we procure, store and deliver—on every step of the journey.” 

“We have completed several upgrades to our Ottumwa facility because of local grants, which directly contributed to our excellent score,” said Jeremy Reha, Vice President of Distribution at Food Bank of Iowa. “We replaced the lights and roof; added a restroom, staging freezer and cooler; and remodeled the area that serves as a breakroom and conference room. We are committed to serving southern Iowa and our Ottumwa facility is essential to that.”

Food Bank of Iowa serves 55 counties and has distribution centers in Des Moines and Ottumwa. Food Bank of Iowa’s Des Moines distribution center also received a top AIB rating in September of 2020.