Chattanooga TN, September 3, 2025
News Summary
The latest health inspection scores for food service establishments in Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker counties have been published, revealing a mix of performance levels. Top performers included several schools and American Legion Post 40, achieving perfect scores of 100, while Little Venezuela and Sonic faced notable issues. These inspections are vital for maintaining health and safety standards within the local food industry.
Chattanooga Food Service Establishment Health Inspection Scores Released for Week Ending September 2
The health departments of Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County have released the latest food service inspection scores, highlighting the performance of various establishments. Inspections are conducted biannually using a 100-point scale, where scores reflect compliance with health standards. Establishments failing to meet critical criteria may face a reinspection.
This week’s scores varied significantly across different venues. Notable establishments include Little Venezuela, which scored 92, receiving notes on issues such as the condition of plantains, improper storage of an ice scoop, and heavy ice buildup in the freezer. The Sonic located in Fort Oglethorpe, GA, scored slightly better with a 93 due to inadequate food item coverings and sanitizer buckets improperly stored on the floor.
On a more positive note, several establishments achieved impressive scores of 98 and above. Chattanooga Charter School of Excellence (Upper), Central High School, Glen Gene Deli, and Our Lady Of Perpetual Help School all scored 98, indicating strong adherence to health regulations. Meanwhile, Alan Gold’s, Dawn School, and others managed to achieve a near-perfect score of 99.
The highest accolade was awarded to American Legion Post 40 and various schools including Bess T. Shepherd Elementary School and Ringgold High School, all scoring a flawless 100. These scores reflect their commitment to maintaining sanitary and safe conditions for food service.
Overview of Inspection Results
Scores for the week tap into a wide range of establishments, providing a snapshot of the health standards in the local food service industry. Below are scores for several key establishments:
- Little Venezuela – 92
- Sonic (Fort Oglethorpe, GA) – 93
- Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy – 94
- McDonald’s (Ringgold, GA) – 94
- Jack’s (Chickamauga, GA) – 95
- STEM School – 95
- Choo Choo BBQ – 97
- Starbucks (Chattanooga, TN) – 97
- Chattanooga Charter School of Excellence (Upper) – 98
- Ringgold High School – 100
- American Legion Post 40 (Ringgold, GA) – 100
For individuals concerned about health-related violations, complaints can be filed through designated health department numbers: Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department at 423-209-8110, Catoosa County Health Department at 706-406-2030, and Walker County Health Department at 706-639-2574.
Background on Inspection Process
The local health departments prioritize food safety and public health, conducting inspections twice a year based on state guidelines. Scores are derived from evaluations of cleanliness, food storage practices, employee sanitation habits, and overall management systems in place to ensure safe food handling.
Establishments are given a score that reflects their performance during these inspections, with 100 being the highest possible score. A range of factors contribute to each establishment’s score, and while reinspection is necessary for those that do not meet critical health standards, establishments can also receive on-the-spot adjustments based on immediate corrective actions taken during the inspection.
FAQ Section
How often are health inspections conducted for food service establishments?
Health inspections for food service establishments are conducted twice a year by local health departments.
What is the scoring scale used for health inspections?
The inspections are scored on a 100-point scale, with a higher score indicating better compliance with health standards.
What should I do if I encounter health-related issues at a food establishment?
For health-related complaints, you can call the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department at 423-209-8110, Catoosa County Health Department at 706-406-2030, or Walker County Health Department at 706-639-2574.
Key Features of the Health Inspection Scores
| Establishment Name | Score | Notable Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Little Venezuela | 92 | Poor condition of plantains, improper storage. |
| Sonic (Fort Oglethorpe, GA) | 93 | Food items inadequately covered. |
| Chattanooga Charter School of Excellence (Upper) | 98 | No significant issues reported. |
| American Legion Post 40 | 100 | Flawless sanitation standards. |
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Additional Resources
- Leaks Bare Hands, Flies, Rodent Droppings
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Unwashed Hands, Improper Storage in Chattanooga Area
- Google Search: Food Safety Inspections
- Snake in the Kitchen, Bare-Handed Food Contact
- Google Scholar: Food Safety Standards
- Moldy Strawberries, Bare-Handed Cooking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Inspections
- Greywater Leak, Flies in the Kitchen Chattanooga
- Google News: Food Service Inspections
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.
