News Summary
Recent health inspections in Mecklenburg County revealed alarming food safety violations at several local restaurants. Issues such as the presence of flying pests, sewage overflow, and improper food handling practices were documented. While no establishments received a ‘C’ grade, 18 were awarded ‘B’ grades, with several scoring below 86, raising significant public health concerns. It’s vital for restaurants to uphold hygiene standards to ensure customer safety.
Charlotte, NC – In May, health inspectors in Mecklenburg County identified several health violations at local restaurants, raising concern over food safety practices in the area. Issues noted during the inspections included the presence of fruit flies, sewage overflow, and flying pests in various kitchens throughout the county.
Among the inspections conducted, no restaurants received a “C” grade, but 18 establishments were awarded “B” grades, indicating scores ranging from 80% to just below 90%. Alarmingly, six of these restaurants achieved scores of 86 or lower, showcasing concerning conditions that could potentially endanger public health.
Highlighted Violations at Notable Restaurants
One notable eatery, Reba’s Bar & Grill, was inspected on May 14 and received a score of 82. Major violations included flying pests in the kitchen, sewage water overflowing onto the floor, and a food handler preparing meals without a required head covering. Additional concerns were noted with dirty shelving used for dry storage, food spillage inside a cooler, and the presence of unlabeled spray bottles.
Tous Le Jours Southpark, inspected on May 20, garnered a score of 84.5, with inspectors finding fruit flies in the back kitchen and employees consuming food in prohibited prep areas, including drinks stored above food preparation surfaces. The establishment also had multiple unlabeled food items consisting of hot dogs, sausages, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese, along with unlabeled spray bottles.
Asian Wok, inspected on May 14, scored 85, highlighting serious lapses in food safety. Violations noted included clean containers that were actually soiled, unclean shelving in the walk-in cooler, and an employee touching ready-to-eat chicken with bare hands. Furthermore, food was not properly dated, and low scores were attributed to food stored unsafely on the floor of a walk-in freezer.
The Providence Country Club Clubhouse also received a score of 85 during its inspection on May 8. Here, inspectors noted that the restaurant was operating a self-service buffet without the necessary approvals. Multiple perishable items were found without date marks, alongside foods stored above safe temperature limits, presenting serious risks for foodborne illnesses.
Another establishment, Nikko Japanese Restaurant, received a score of 86 after an inspection on May 7. Violations included small flies observed above a sink and raw fish stored improperly above ready-to-eat food items. Additionally, Sugar Creek Brewing Company scored the same 86 on May 20, with notable issues such as flying pests in the dishpit, wet dishes stored as clean, and improper food storage practices.
Importance of Health Inspections and Sanitation Scores
Sanitation scores play a crucial role in assessing restaurants’ compliance with health standards designed to avert foodborne illnesses. The health inspections conducted in Mecklenburg County serve to enforce regulations and safeguard public welfare regarding food safety practices. In North Carolina, restaurant operating permits can be revoked if a score dips below 70%, emphasizing the need for establishments to adhere to stringent health codes.
The findings from May inspections are a reminder of the importance of maintaining hygiene and safety standards in the food industry. As dining establishments continue to operate in a community-focused environment, adherence to health regulations remains critical for protecting customers and ensuring a safe dining experience for all.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte’s Zafran Kabab Palace Earns ‘B’ Grade from Health Department
Charlotte’s AMF University Lanes Earns a ‘B’ Grade Amid Health Violations
Shane’s Rib Shack Faces Health Violations in Latest Inspection
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers in South Charlotte Receives ‘B’ Grade
Charlotte Dining Scene Under Scrutiny Due to Health Violations
South Charlotte Restaurant Faces Health Inspection Challenges
Snowfall Expected: Charlotte Area Schools Adjust Schedules
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Health Violations at Local Restaurants
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Charlotte Observer: Sanitation Scores Overview
- Google Search: Food Safety Violations
- Charlotte Observer: Recent Health Inspections
- Google Scholar: Food Sanitation Standards
- Charlotte Observer: Importance of Health Inspections
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Foodborne Illness
- Charlotte Observer: Health Ratings in Restaurants
- Google News: Restaurant Health Inspections
