Clinton County Restaurant Inspections Reveal Food Safety Concerns in October
When it comes to dining out, food safety is the unsung hero. In Clinton County, health inspectors play a crucial role in ensuring that local eateries adhere to strict food safety standards.
October’s inspections unveiled several violations, ranging from minor oversights to potential health hazards.
Priority Violations: Where Temperature and Storage Missed the Mark
Biggby Coffee, DeWitt (13181 Schavey Road):
Sliced turkey, Havarti, and cheddar cheeses were found at 48°F, seven degrees above the required 41°F cold storage standard.
Fortunately, the products were moved and reconditioned within four hours. “The products did not exceed 2 hours out of temperature control and were able to be reconditioned within 4 hours.”
Biggby Coffee, St. Johns (1077 Old U.S. 27):
Another temperature mishap occurred here, with ham, Havarti, and cheddar cheeses stored at 44°F. While less severe, it still exceeded the recommended limit.
Gran Maya, St. Johns (2459 Ontario Drive):
Improper food storage posed cross-contamination risks when raw chicken was placed above raw ground pork. This issue highlights the importance of safe stacking practices.
Foundation Issues: Minor But Significant Adjustments Needed
Draft House, DeWitt (12449 Old U.S. 27):
A handwashing sink was inaccessible due to a plastic tray blocking it. As the saying goes, “clean hands save lives,” but only if the sink is ready to use.
Fowler High School, Fowler (700 S. Main St.):
Date marking went awry with Parmesan cheese and bacon bits displaying outdated labels, though they were freshly prepared earlier in the week.
Sirens Bar, St. Johns (119 E. Walker St.):
No soap at a handwashing sink was noted, a small oversight that could lead to big consequences.
Safety First: Moving Forward
While violations were identified, most were swiftly addressed. These inspections remind us how vital vigilance is for maintaining public health.
From cross-contamination to temperature slip-ups, food safety is a shared responsibility between establishments and the community.
Stay informed about food safety practices and learn how to spot concerns when dining out. Visit our homepage for expert tips.
