Health Inspector Report: 24 Violations at Popeyes Shine a Spotlight on Food Safety This Week
In the bustling heart of Lubbock, Texas, health inspectors descended upon over 80 food establishments this week, scrutinizing their cleanliness and food safety practices. While most eateries maintained satisfactory standards, two locations stood out on the Food for Thought list for all the wrong reasons.
The Troubling Findings at Popeyes
Popeyes, located at 2505 82nd Street, was flagged with 24 violations—a concerning revelation for seafood and chicken lovers alike. Let’s delve into the specific infractions that raised eyebrows and set alarm bells ringing regarding food safety.
Critical Violations Impacting Food Safety
- Raw chicken mishap: The chicken was cooked to a mere 155°F, failing to reach the necessary 165°F to eliminate harmful bacteria, putting customers at risk.
- Inadequate food temperatures: Rice and mashed potatoes were not heated sufficiently, falling short of the required 135°F.
- Coleslaw concern: The dish failed to meet the safe temperature of 41°F or below, which is crucial for preventing spoilage.
- Equipment oversights: There was no thermometer present in the reach-in cooler, a glaring omission in food safety protocols.
- Sanitizer issues: A sanitizer solution was found at toxic levels, and another sanitizer bucket was oddly perched on a prep table—an unsanitary placement.
- Compromised safety equipment: The three-compartment sink sanitizer was not strong enough due to a broken dispenser, while the backflow prevention device on the mop sink was inoperative, leading to a $175 penalty for repeat violations.
- Management missteps: The inspector noted that the number and nature of the violations suggested a lack of food safety knowledge among management.
Additional Violations Highlighting Poor Practices
The infractions didn’t stop there. Inspectors noted numerous additional concerns, such as:
- A propped open back door, potentially inviting pests.
- A reach-in freezer encumbered with a heavy ice accumulation.
- Improper food storage practices, including a scoop stored directly in bulk food without a designated handle.
- Reuse of single-use cups for ice at the drive-thru and frozen shrimp in the prep station.
- Unlabeled bulk storage containers, creating ambiguity about their contents.
- The floor drain and various areas, including the interior of the reach-in cooler, were heavily soiled with food debris, reflecting inadequate cleaning practices.
- Even the ceiling tiles were improperly installed, leaving unsightly gaps.
Despite the alarming number of violations, the silver lining is that most were reportedly corrected on-site during the inspection process.
A Bright Spot in Lubbock’s Food Scene
In stark contrast, there is good news to share! One location has emerged victorious amidst the scrutiny:
- Chick-Fil-A at 312 University made it to the Top Performer list, showcasing exemplary food safety practices and commitment to cleanliness.
This particular establishment serves as a benchmark for others in the community, demonstrating the benefits of adhering to stringent health standards.
Conclusion: Food Safety Must Be the Priority
The recent inspection at Popeyes serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. As patrons, it’s crucial to be aware of the hygiene levels at our favorite eateries and to advocate for healthier practices. Meanwhile, let’s celebrate those establishments, like Chick-Fil-A, that prioritize the well-being of their customers.
For more insights on food safety and health regulations, consider reading resources from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and local health departments.
Stay informed, stay safe, and happy dining!
