BALTIMORE (WBFF) - A new portal launched by the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) will give citizens online access to recent food service facility inspection information.

BCHD officials say the portal (http://baltimore.foodinspectionreports.com) is intended to provide greater transparency so that citizens can make better informed dining choices.

RELATED | Baltimore City Health Department Food Facility Inspection Reports

"People need to be able to make informed decisions about where they want to eat," said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen. "We are proud to introduce this new tool which will increase transparency and help residents make better choices for their families. We've continued to work tirelessly to ensure our restaurants and other food service establishments serve food in a hygienic and safe way, and believe this new system will empower residents to be more involved in this critical public safety process."

Restaurants listed on the website can be sorted by name, address, zip code, or city council district. Electronic reports are available for inspections conducted January 1, 2016 and later.

The 'Food Service Facility Inspection Reports' list items including employee hand-washing, cooking times and temperatures, thawing methods, utensil storage and methods to prevent spoilage.

Under legislation introduced last year, BCHD also posts recent food establishment closures online and via social media.

RELATED | Recent Food Establishment Closures

"This is about transparency, about tax payers dollars, and-most importantly-about resident's health," said Councilman Brandon Scott. "This online resource will help bring Baltimore into to the 21st century and better ensure the health and safety of our families. The public has a right to know why restaurants are closed in a timely manner. We will continue to hold people accountable and improve the ability of residents to know what's happening in their communities."