In a proactive move to safeguard **public health**, the Lenawee County Health Department has unveiled a series of food safety inspection reports from May, covering a **variety of dining establishments** including restaurants, schools, and more. The intention? To keep our culinary spaces safe and appetizing for everyone.
Why Food Safety Matters
Understanding the crucial role that **proper food handling** plays in preventing foodborne illnesses is essential. With this freshly released data, the community can stay informed about local food safety conditions.
What’s New? Priority Violations Reported
The Daily Telegram is set to take a stand in 2025 by publishing ongoing reports on **“priority violations”**—issues that pose immediate health risks. Their coverage will extend to “priority foundation” violations and occasional “core” violations, especially when they occur in clusters at specific eateries.
Dining Spots Under Scrutiny
Below are the **establishments** that faced findings of concern in May:
Becky’s Kountry Kitchen
**Location**: 631 W. Adrian St. in Adrian
Priority Violation: During inspection, raw chicken was discovered **stored above** raw beef and pork, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. It’s vital for raw chicken to be stored below all other products!
Moreover, the pie cooler was measured at **an unsafe ambient temperature of 55 degrees**. Several pies exceeded the recommended 41-degree limit: blueberry pie at 55, cherry at 51, banana cream at 54, and strawberry at 53 degrees. To combat **bacterial growth**, foods must be held at safe temperatures.
Priority Foundation: The facility was found to be selling home-canned products like candies, pickles, and jams that had not been **correctly labeled** and were canned without appropriate approval. For future compliance, variance documentation is required.
Core Violation: A significant amount of **dirt and grease** was discovered in the kitchen. Consistent cleaning practices are recommended to maintain sanitation standards.
Country Skillet
**Location**: 1422 S. Main St. (Suite C) in Adrian
Priority Violation: The main kitchen prep cooler displayed an alarming **ambient temperature of 54 degrees**. Various foods—including chorizo, tuna salad, and hard-boiled eggs—were found above safe temperatures. It’s crucial for the cooler to function correctly to prevent bacterial growth.
Correction Measures: Several items were discarded, while others were advised to be moved to a cooler space immediately after lunch service.
Marco’s Pizza
**Location**: 202 E. Chicago Blvd. in Tecumseh
The facility lacked a **valid manager certification** on-site. Having a certified manager present is essential to ensuring compliance with health standards.
Rachel’s Coney Island
**Location**: 5140 Michigan Ave. in Tipton
Priority Violation: Various time/temperature-controlled foods were stored at unsafe temperatures in the walk-in cooler, such as hot dogs at 57 degrees and house-made tzatziki at 59 degrees. Proper storage is key to limit bacteria growth!
Rich Lanes
**Location**: 622 W. Adrian St. in Blissfield
Core Violation: The prep cooler was operating at an unsafe **temperature** of 51 degrees, prompting immediate action. Staff was instructed to monitor and maintain correct temperatures diligently.
The Station Restaurant
**Location**: 110 S. Evans St. in Tecumseh
Priority Violation: Ground beef was improperly placed above raw shell eggs, raising the risk of cross-contamination. Additionally, expired house-made products were found and voluntarily discarded.
Public Triumphs: Perfect Inspections
Amid the challenges, several establishments shone brilliantly with no core, priority foundation, or priority violations during May inspections:
- Adrian Senior Center
- Blissfield Little League
- China Express
- Cancun Mexican Restaurant
- Embers Bar & Grill
- Gauci’s Sports Pub & Pizzeria
- Irish Hills Nutrition
- Ten Pin Pizza
- Wolf Creek Golf Club
These exemplary establishments demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of food safety, exemplifying what it means to prioritize public health!
As locals, it’s our responsibility to demand **excellence** in our dining experiences. Stay vigilant and informed about food safety in Lenawee County!
— Contact reporter Corey Murray at [email protected] or follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @cmurrayhdn.
