Uncovering the Secrets of Restaurant Hygiene: A Shocking Story
In the world of food safety, a recent health inspection report has left many in Jefferson County, Tennessee, with a sour taste in their mouths. But here's where it gets controversial...
The Toro Mexican Grill, located on Highway 92 in Dandridge, received a grade of 72, which is considered a passing score. However, the details of this inspection reveal a different story, one that might make you think twice before dining out.
Let's dive into the critical violations that led to this less-than-stellar grade. Firstly, the inspector discovered a major issue with the dishwasher. No chlorine was running through it, a requirement for proper sanitation. Inside, the interior panels were heavily soiled with grease, making it challenging to ensure dishes and utensils were adequately cleaned and sanitized.
But that's not all. Gnats, those tiny flying insects, were spotted crawling on food preparation tables. Gnats are known carriers of bacteria, a serious concern for food safety. Imagine the potential health risks associated with this violation!
The temperature of food was also a significant concern. Refried beans were found at a temperature of 84 degrees, far below the required 135°F to prevent foodborne illnesses. On the other hand, queso cheese was at 53 degrees, well above the safe cool temperature of 41 degrees. As a result, a whopping 40 pounds of queso had to be discarded.
Another critical violation involved the thawing of raw chicken and beef at room temperature. While this might be a common practice at home, restaurants must adhere to stricter guidelines. Frozen food should be thawed in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Fortunately, the Toro Grill took swift action. A follow-up inspection revealed that all original violations had been corrected, resulting in an impressive grade of 93. This shows that when restaurants take food safety seriously, they can turn things around.
And this is the part most people miss: restaurant inspections are conducted every six months, and they're unannounced. So, the next time you dine out, remember that an inspection represents a snapshot of conditions at that particular moment. It's always a good idea to check the latest inspection reports, which restaurants are required to post in a visible location.
Now, let's celebrate the top scorers of the week! These restaurants have proven their commitment to food safety and hygiene:
- Tokyo Sushi & Steakhouse, Powell - 100
- Cook Out, Powell - 100
- 5 Guys Burgers & Fries, Powell - 100
- Wendy's, Knoxville - 100
- Cava, Knoxville - 100
- North Knox Cafe, Knoxville - 99
- Cataleya Cantina Restaurant, Knoxville - 99
- Subway, Knoxville - 99
- Firehouse Subs, Knoxville - 99
- KFC, Knoxville - 99
- Salsarita's Fresh Cantina, Knoxville - 99
- Cinco Amigos, Loudon - 99
- Hensley Market & Deli, Andersonville - 99
- Alcoa Pizza Cafe, Alcoa - 98
- Nama Sushi Bar, Knoxville - 98
- Pizza Hut, Knoxville - 98
So, what's your take on restaurant hygiene? Do you think these inspections are strict enough? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! We'd love to hear your opinions and stories.
