Multiple Counties Report Widespread Food Safety Violations in August Inspections

Recent food inspections across various U.S. counties reveal ongoing challenges with food safety and sanitation in restaurants and food establishments. In Augusta, one establishment failed with a score of 68 due to improper use of the employee handwashing sink, inadequate sanitization of food-contact surfaces, and improper cold food storage, including cream cheese kept at 53°F instead of the required 41°F or below. Terre Haute inspections found widespread issues such as produce stored on the floor, condensation on equipment, torn cooler door gaskets, accumulated debris throughout kitchen areas, and improper hot holding temperatures, with some foods held at temperatures below the required 135°F. In Greene County, inspections mentioned pest evidence, lack of dishwasher sanitizer monitoring, and structural issues like holes and gaps allowing pest entry, resulting in temporary restrictions like the exclusive use of disposable wares. Wyoming's Casper-Natrona and Cheyenne-Laramie counties emphasized the importance of correcting violations promptly, noting distinctions between critical violations that can cause illness and non-critical cleanliness issues, with many inspections reporting problems like dented cans, unlabeled sanitizers, and improper food storage temperatures but also stressing education and follow-up compliance. Overall, health departments continue to focus on educating businesses to maintain food safety, with inspections highlighting the need for improvements in temperature control, sanitation, pest prevention, and equipment maintenance.