News Summary
Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker County health departments have published their latest food safety scores for local restaurants. Some establishments faced major violations, while others celebrated perfect scores. With inspections occurring biannually, many restaurants must maintain high safety standards to ensure consumer confidence. Citizens can also access an interactive food inspection map to make informed dining decisions.
Chattanooga – The health departments of Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County have released their weekly food safety scores for local restaurants, revealing several establishments facing critical violations while others achieved perfect scores. Inspections occur biannually on a 100-point scale, with restaurants required to be reinspected if they fail to meet safety standards.
The following establishments received low scores for the week ending July 8, indicating areas of concern regarding food safety:
- Public House: 79 – Major issues included bare-handed food handling, improper use of sanitizers, and food temperatures not meeting safety standards.
- Smoothie King: 81 – Violations noted were the absence of a manager during inspection, inadequate sanitization, presence of insects, and unclean equipment.
- Subway: 82 – The inspection found unawareness regarding employee illness policy, lack of water at steam tables, and improper storage of cleaning supplies.
- El Metate: 75 – Violations included improper handwashing practices and use of out-of-date food items.
Conversely, many establishments have scored well, reflecting good practices in food safety. The following eateries have received higher scores:
- KFC: 85
- Hardee’s: 91
- Bollywood Tacos: 92
- Marco’s Pizza: 92
- Mr. Burrito: 92
- Bojangles: 93
- Wendy’s: 95
- Chick-fil-A: 97
- Salsarita’s: 97
A notable achievement includes a total of 22 establishments attaining perfect scores of 100. Among these are:
- Chicken Salad Chick
- Domino’s
- Taco Bell
- Pure Nutrition
- Various Subways, mobile vendors, and several local favorites.
In addition to scores, the Health Department underscores the importance of consumer awareness regarding food safety standards. They have launched an interactive food inspection map, allowing residents to access and review inspection reports for over 1,200 establishments. This initiative encourages informed dining decisions among the public.
Authorities stress the need for high food safety standards, emphasizing that consumers should be vigilant and proactive about the places they choose to dine in. Individuals wishing to report food safety concerns can contact the respective health department offices:
- Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department: 423-209-8110
- Catoosa County Health Department: 706-406-2030
- Walker County Health Department: 706-639-2574
The data highlights the critical nature of food safety in local dining. It serves as a reminder that while many establishments maintain high standards, vigilance and compliance with safety regulations must be a collective effort among all food service entities.
As the community continues to engage with local food establishments, it is clear that maintaining stringent safety standards is crucial not only for businesses but also for the health and well-being of diners. Restaurants showing excellence in food safety practices will continue to flourish, while those facing challenges will need to implement corrective actions to meet health requirements.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Unwashed Avocados & Chips on the Floor
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Local 3 News: Broken Sink Causes Mexican Restaurant to Come Close to Failing
- Google Search: Restaurant Health Inspections
- WISH TV: Hamilton Co Restaurants Inspection Results
- Google Scholar: Food Safety Inspections
- Read the Reporter: Health Department Launches Interactive Food Inspection Map
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Safety
- Times Free Press: Onions in Mop Bucket & Roaches Behind Knife Holder
- Google News: Restaurant Inspections Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
