Shocking Food Safety Violations: O’Hana Ramen & Sushi Bar Under Fire
LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) — In a stunning revelation this week, O’Hana Ramen & Sushi Bar has been cited with 44 severe health violations that have raised alarms about food safety. Located at 5214 98th, the establishment faced a range of concerning practices that put diners at risk.
Key Violations That Shocked Inspectors
From improper food storage to blatant cross-contamination, the inspection highlighted critical lapses in hygiene and safety. Here are some of the most alarming violations:
Unsafe Temperatures: Several food items were stored above the safe cold temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit, remaining above this threshold for over 24 hours. For instance:
- Cut jalapeños in the sushi bar displayed at 43°F.
- Cooked eggs reached an unsafe 51°F after exceeding four hours in a cooler.
- Cooked, peeled, and marinated eggs reached 54°F—a significant risk for foodborne illness.
Cross-Contamination Hazards: One of the most shocking violations was raw meat contaminants found in a bulk container of sugar, potentially creating a dangerous environment for customers.
- Storage Violations: Raw chicken was improperly stored above ready-to-eat items like noodles and onions, posing extreme risks for cross-contamination.
Sanitation Shortcomings
The findings didn’t stop there. The facility showed alarming neglect in sanitizing food contact surfaces, further endangering public health. Inspectors noted:
- Dented cans of corn, which could harbor botulism.
- Glass cleaner carelessly left on preparation tables.
- Hand sinks used incorrectly, with items stored in them that prevent proper handwashing.
Additional Concerns in Food Handling
Even the Core violations—those concerning general food safety practices—revealed startling oversights:
- Wet cloths improperly stored used for wiping surfaces.
- Food items stored directly on the floor, including boxes of shrimp and containers of cooked noodles.
- Employee personal items, such as coats and drinks, stored near food areas, breaching health standards.
Despite these alarming findings, most violations were corrected on-site during the inspection.
A Comparative Case: E & J Smokehouse – Escondido Grill
Not far behind in the violation count, E & J Smokehouse – Escondido Grill at 701 Regis had 23 violations. Some highlights include:
- Ribs not cooling properly and several food items, including egg stuffing and mac & cheese, above safe temperatures.
- Improperly stored food like uncovered cooked turkey in a warming cabinet and dirty can openers further emphasize deficiencies in food handling practices.
A Glimmer of Hope: Top Performers in Food Safety
On a brighter note, here are the Top Performers this week, showcasing commendable food safety practices:
- Frutas Lokas Lbk (Food Truck)
- Kona Ice of Lubbock (Food Truck)
- The Soda Shack (Food Truck)
- Big Mike’s Food Truck
- Mi Kocina (Food Truck)
Conclusion: The Importance of Food Safety
These findings underscore the rampant issues in food safety that still persist in some local establishments. Consumers need to remain vigilant, spreading awareness about food safety standards. When dining out, knowing which restaurants prioritize hygiene can make a significant difference in your culinary experience. Choose wisely, and don’t hesitate to report any observed violations to help keep our dining scene safe.
For more insights on food safety, consider checking out the Food Safety and Inspection Service or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for guidelines and updates. 🥢🍣
Copyright 2025 KCBD. All rights reserved.
