News Summary
Recent health department inspection scores reveal significant compliance issues among local restaurants in Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties, with scores ranging from a concerning low of 62 to perfect marks of 100. Key violations were found, particularly at American Wings, Zaya, and El Metate. However, several establishments excelled, achieving top scores, highlighting the variance in food safety adherence. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these inspections for their health safety.
Chattanooga
The latest health department inspection scores reveal a mixed bag of compliance with food safety regulations among local restaurants in Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties. The inspections, which occur twice a year, utilize a 100-point scale to evaluate food service establishments. Following these inspections, establishments that fail to meet critical health standards are required to undergo a reinspection.
Most concerning is American Wings, located at 4011 Brainerd Road, Suite 127, which scored a low 62. Key violations included poor control over food safety practices and insufficient staff knowledge regarding proper procedures. The inspection highlighted improper storage practices, such as raw fish stacked over cabbage and food placed directly on the floor. Additionally, sanitation issues were flagged, including excessively high chlorine levels in the sanitizer bucket.
Other establishments also demonstrated significant health code issues. Zaya, situated at 1943 300 Cherokee Blvd., Suite 125, earned a score of 71 due to problems with handwashing procedures and incorrect food storage temperatures. El Metate in Soddy Daisy faced similar scrutiny, receiving a 75 for employee hygiene violations and improper food storage, specifically finding raw pork placed atop lemons.
A score of 82 was recorded for 1885 Grill at 3914 St. Elmo Ave., where staff were found consuming food in the kitchen and there was a lack of proper labeling for chemicals. Scores across various establishments varied significantly, with several receiving grades between 83 and 100, indicating different levels of compliance with health regulations.
Despite the concerning scores from some restaurants, there were bright spots in the health inspection results. A number of local establishments achieved perfect scores, including Oaks Coffee House in Chattanooga, Tropical Sno in Catoosa County, and Snapfinger Scoops in Whitfield County. These restaurants exemplified adherence to all food safety standards as evidenced by their scores of 100.
Many other restaurants managed to attain high scores, with examples such as the 2nd American Restaurant and Anita’s Taqueria also receiving perfect ratings. The recent inspection data demonstrate a range of compliance, with scores fluctuating between 63 and 99 among other local food service locations.
It is crucial for consumers to be aware of these inspection findings as they reflect the health and safety practices within their local dining establishments. The health departments emphasize that these scores are original and do not account for any immediate corrections made during the inspection process that may improve scores afterward.
Health inspection reports are updated weekly to inform the public, and follow-up inspections are typically conducted the following week to address any identified issues. Residents can voice health-related concerns or file complaints regarding food service establishments by contacting the appropriate health department. For issues in Hamilton County, reach out to the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department at 423-209-8110. For Catoosa County, call 706-406-2030, and for Walker County, the number is 706-639-2574.
The emphasis on food safety remains a priority for local health departments, as the community continues to navigate the balance between enjoying dining experiences and ensuring public health standards are maintained.
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Broken Sink Causes Mexican Restaurant to Come Close to Failing
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Times Free Press: Bare-Handed Food Contact in Chattanooga Area
- Google Search: Chattanooga Restaurant Inspections
- Local 3 News: Popular Downtown Chattanooga Restaurant Scores 71 Then 95 in Follow-Up Inspection
- Google Scholar: Food Safety Restaurant Inspections
- Times Free Press: Live Roach Raw Meat Juices Chattanooga Area
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Inspections Food
- Local 3 News: Tennessee Valley Restaurants Excel in Inspections
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Author: HERE Chattanooga
