Puerto Vallarta is famous for its beaches, mountains, culture, and delicious food. But let’s talk about food safety! As a recovering chef, I believe it’s even more critical than perfect flavor. I’ve been traveling around Mexico for the past 26 years (plus some quickie over-the-broader visits as a kid in Texas). While Mexico has had a poor perception around proper food handling, things have been changing steadily for the better over the last 35 years. Moctezuma’s Revenge, after all, is somewhat based on food safety. However, I believe it’s more about overindulgence in guacamole, margaritas, tequila, beer, sun, and sex. But that’s for another story. I digress…
As of December 2024, over 100 establishments in Vallarta have earned the Distintivo H certification for food safety.
This award means they meet Mexico’s highest food handling and preparation hygiene standards.
The Distintivo H is granted by SECTUR and the Mexican Ministry of Health to restaurants and food providers.
It recognizes places that follow strict safety rules and prevent foodborne illnesses.
Purpose of the Distintivo H Certification
The program was launched in 1990 to protect tourists and locals from unsafe food practices.
Its three main goals are:
- Ensure food is handled and served safely.
- Prevent illness from contaminated or poorly stored food.
- Raise quality standards in Mexican hospitality.
How Restaurants Earn the Certification
1. Staff Training
Food handlers must complete training from SECTUR-approved instructors or certified consultants.
- Operational staff complete 20 hours of training.
- Admin staff complete 10 hours.
Training includes hygiene, safe temperatures, storage, and cross-contamination prevention.
2. Implementation of Standards
Restaurants must apply the safety standards in their daily operations.
They must follow Norma NMX-F-605-NORMEX-2018 for food handling and cleanliness.
Standards cover everything from when the products arrive at the door: receiving raw materials, proper storage, cooking, cleaning, and pest control.
Personal hygiene and water safety are also included.
3. Pre-Audit
So it’s recommended that a certified consultant perform a pre-audit to find problem areas before the official inspection.
4. Official Audit
A SECTUR-approved inspector visits the business for a complete evaluation.
They inspect food storage, preparation, cleanliness, and staff hygiene.
Critical areas like temperature, labeling, and sanitation are reviewed.
5. Certification Awarded
To earn Distintivo H, the restaurant must meet
- 100% of the critical
- 90% of the general standards.
Certification is valid for one year.
6. Renewal
The restaurant must maintain hygiene daily and pass annual re-evaluations to renew.
Why Distintivo H Is Important
The certification offers many benefits:
Marketing boost: It tells customers that the food is safe and clean.
Trust: It builds confidence among tourists and locals.
Legal protection: It helps avoid fines or shutdowns.
Better staff training: It improves daily operations and safety. This also trickles down into their home lives, impacting better practices and increasing knowledge among family members.
Requirements to Apply
To apply, you must be a licensed food establishment in Mexico and be prepared to spend 30,000 to 60,000 pesos.
You must train staff and hold valid certificates. Get the program manual here.
Hire a certified consultant or verification unit for inspection.
Local Success: Barcelona Tapas PV
Barcelona Tapas is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and is considered by many (myself included) to be one of the best restaurants in Vallarta. In 2000, they started with a small one-story restaurant with 10 tables. They planned for this certification as they’ve expanded year after year, investing back into their business and community. Today, they have six stories (with an elevator), over 150 seats, and a state-of-the-art kitchen with the gold standard– Distintivo H certification.
We spoke with owner Chef/Owner William Carballo, who shared:
“There’s a tremendous amount of investment, dedication, and pride involved in achieving this certification. My team and I want everyone to know that we not only pain-stakingly source the best ingredients, but the minute they hit our steps we handle them with great care and intention. Up until they cross your lips.”
Did You Know?
Distintivo H isn’t just for restaurants.
So hospitals, schools and catering services in Mexico can also qualify.
How to Spot Certified Restaurants
Look for the Distintivo H logo at your favorite dining spots.
This symbol shows the place follows strict hygiene rules.
More than 100 places in Puerto Vallarta now proudly display it.
Eat with Confidence in Vallarta
Food safety matters. With Distintivo H, you can dine confidently, knowing your food meets the highest standards.
