Evangel University’s Valor Dining Center Faces Re-Inspection Due to Temperature Violations
Attention food enthusiasts and campus diners! It seems that Springfield University’s cafeteria, the Valor Dining Center located at 1111 N. Glenstone Ave., has caught the eye of health inspectors due to some alarming food safety issues.
Temperature Troubles: What Happened?
In a recent inspection report released on April 2 by the Springfield-Greene County Health Department, the Valor Dining Center was flagged for serious temperature violations that could pose risks to diners’ health. Certain dishes, including items from the salad bar and the deli cooler, were discovered to be above 41 degrees Fahrenheit—a critical threshold that potentially allows harmful bacteria to flourish.
Moreover, a more shocking discovery revealed french fries languishing in a hot box, measuring only 125 degrees! Fortunately, timely actions were taken: the questionable food items were promptly discarded, and the fries were reheated to a safe 165 degrees. In addition, the temperature of the hot box was adjusted accordingly.
Understanding Food Safety Violations
These issues are classified into two categories: priority and non-priority violations. Priority violations directly affect food safety—such as improper temperatures, cross-contamination risks, and lack of employee hygiene practices. Multiple priority violations can even lead to an establishment’s shutdown. Conversely, non-priority violations, like dirty floors and sticky tabletops, do not typically compromise food safety directly.
It’s crucial to note that food temperatures within the "danger zone," as defined by the USDA, ranging from 41 to 135 degrees, can facilitate rapid bacterial growth, making it imperative for every establishment to adhere strictly to these regulations.
A Call for Accountability and Education
Thanks to conscientious food inspectors, diners at the Valor Dining Center were spared from potential health hazards. The dining facility has been instructed to undergo a re-inspection, indicating the ongoing commitment to ensuring food safety among Springfield universities.
While the cafeteria corrected several of its priority violations swiftly, it also received a non-priority citation for unclean cabinets situated beneath the self-service soda machine. This highlights how essential it is for establishments to maintain cleanliness in all areas.
What Can Diners Do?
As a consumer, curiosity about your favorite food establishments is a natural impulse. Did you know you can stay informed about food safety ratings? The Springfield-Greene County Health Department conducts inspections on a periodic basis, calculated based on various factors including the type and volume of food served. You can explore recent inspection reports to stay aware of local dining safety.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Our Food Safe
We all deserve a worry-free dining experience, and food safety should always be at the forefront of any establishment’s mission. While the Valor Dining Center has been brought under scrutiny, it serves as a reminder for us all—to prioritize food safety and foster a community that values health and wellness. Keep an eye on those temperature checks, and happy dining!
