News Summary
Health inspection scores for local restaurants in Chattanooga, spanning Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker counties, have raised concerns about food safety. The scores, released for the week ending May 6, revealed lower ratings for establishments such as Southern Belle and El Metate due to sanitation issues. In contrast, some restaurants achieved perfect scores, showcasing the variance in compliance. In response, the Hamilton County Health Department has introduced an interactive food inspection map to promote food safety awareness among residents.
Chattanooga Neighborhoods Receive Health Inspection Scores
The health departments of Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County recently released their food inspection scores for local restaurants for the week ending May 6. Several establishments received scores that raised concerns regarding food handling, sanitation, and safety practices.
Among the lower scores reported were Southern Belle on Riverfront Parkway, which received a score of 73 due to issues with food handling and cleanliness. El Metate on Dayton Pike scored 75, highlighting multiple sanitation concerns and unsafe food storage practices. Church’s Chicken on Brainerd Road and Taqueria Marquense (Mobile) on E. Main St. each scored 79, with reports of unsafe food storage conditions and pest concerns, as well as poor food safety knowledge demonstrated by staff.
Other establishments that received an inspection score include Seasons Hibachi, which scored 81, noting only minor issues. Meanwhile, the highest scores were achieved by several restaurants, including America Runs On Pizza and Popeye’s, which scored 100. The range of scores illustrates the varying levels of compliance among food service providers in the area.
Health Department Initiatives for Food Safety
In response to these findings, the Hamilton County Health Department has launched an interactive food inspection map. This tool allows residents to access reports for over 1,200 food service establishments in the region. Users can view nearby restaurants and click for detailed inspection results. The initiative aims to enhance public access to food safety information and increase awareness of food handling practices.
The health department conducts inspections twice a year and re-inspects any establishments that fail to meet critical standards. It’s important to note that inspection scores do not reflect real-time changes made by establishments on inspection day, which may lead to upward adjustments in scores over time.
Contact Information for Health-Related Complaints
For residents with concerns regarding food safety, the health departments provide essential contact numbers:
- Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department: 423-209-8110
- Catoosa County Health Department: 706-406-2030
- Walker County Health Department: 706-639-2574
Commitment to Food Safety
The focus on food safety remains a top priority for health officials. Regular, unannounced inspections are conducted based on hazard risk assessments, ensuring establishments maintain compliance with health regulations. Inspection results are made public 10 days after inspections are completed.
Additionally, the Health Department offers food safety training upon request to assist food establishments in enhancing their food handling and safety practices. The combination of inspections and educational efforts aims to protect public health and ensure safe dining experiences for all residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Chattanooga Food Safety Scores Released
Inspection Scores Released for Local Food Establishments
Food Safety Scores Released for Chattanooga Area
Food Safety Inspection Results for Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties
Chattanooga Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival Returns
Food Inspection Scores Released for Local Eateries
Chattanooga Area Food Establishments Inspection Scores Released
Health Violations Report: Local Restaurants Face Scrutiny
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Snake in the Kitchen – Bare-Handed Food Contact
- WISH-TV: Hamilton Co Restaurants Inspection Tool
- Read the Reporter: Health Department’s Interactive Food Inspection Map
- Local 3 News: Downtown Chattanooga Restaurant Scores
- Times Free Press: Room Temperature Sushi and No Hair Ties
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Safety
- Google Search: Food Inspection Reports
- Google Scholar: Food Safety Practices
- Google News: Restaurant Health Inspections
