Charlotte’s Food Scene Faces Health Inspection Challenge
Charlotte, the vibrant heart of North Carolina, is known for its delicious food offerings ranging from gourmet dining to local food trucks. However, recent health inspections have revealed some concerning results for nearly a dozen food establishments in the area. With food safety taking center stage, it’s essential for diners to stay informed.
November Health Inspections: The Breakdown
In November, the Mecklenburg County Health Department conducted inspections across a whopping 764 food establishments. Unfortunately, 11 of these establishments scored below a 90, resulting in grades of “B” or “C” during their evaluations. This has raised some eyebrows and provided food for thought for local diners. The inspections encompassed a variety of venues, including restaurants, food stands, mobile food operators, and push carts.
What does it mean to score below 90, you ask? Well, the North Carolina Health Code has strict regulations, and any establishment scoring below 70 must have their permit revoked immediately. Luckily, there are about 4,400 food-service facilities in Mecklenburg County, and it’s heartening to know that most of them maintain high food safety standards.
A Look at Health Violations
The Health Department staff are busy bees, conducting more than 13,000 inspections annually. These inspections are crucial for keeping the local food supply safe and identifying potential health risks. Inspectors look for issues that could lead to foodborne illnesses, such as improper cooking techniques, lack of hygiene among food handlers, and sick workers preparing food.
So, what were some specific violations that led to those concerning scores? Let’s break down a few of the establishments that tripped up during their inspections.
Notable Offenders from November
- 7th St. NY Deli, 401 Hawthorne Lane (Score: 82/B)
- Bheemas, 9545 Pinnacle Drive (Score: 86.5/B)
- Bojangles, 4131 Statesville Ave. (Score: 88.5/B)
- Irie Nation Restaurant, 3501 S. Tryon St. (Score: 86/B)
Inspected on November 18, this deli faced nine violations, including raw burgers stored over cheeses, improper food cooling processes, and a buildup of food residue on utensils. Thankfully, after a reinspection on November 21, they bounced back to a solid 96/A.
This food truck racked up eleven violations during its inspection on November 16. Notably, employees lacked knowledge about foodborne illnesses, and there were multiple handwashing violations. A comprehensive reinspection might be in order for this mobile unit!
On November 1, several issues were noted, including employees not washing their hands properly and flies buzzing around the kitchen. Thankfully, after a reinspection, the score improved to 93.5/A.
This venue had significant issues, including unqualified management, issues with cooling sweet potatoes, and food preparation violations. They didn’t do much better on their follow-up inspection either, with a score of 84.5/B.
Further Insights and Resources
Curious about what health inspectors are looking for? Their report focuses on food safety regulations and prevention measures for keeping your meals safe from contaminants. You can find detailed health inspection results and more information about local food safety regulations online.
While some establishments have struggled, many others are maintaining excellent standards, proving that Charlotte remains a dynamic food city. If you’re ready to enjoy a meal, make sure to check out the hygiene scores and keep an eye on local news for updates on food safety practices!
Stay Informed, Stay Safe!
In conclusion, it’s crucial for diners in Charlotte to stay informed about the health inspection scores of their favorite restaurants. With the potential for foodborne illnesses lurking, knowledge is power! So next time you’re about to chow down at a new spot, take a moment to check how they fared during their last health inspection.
Until next time, enjoy the culinary delights of Charlotte—just keep health safety in mind!
