Understanding Food Safety: Insights from Recent Inspections in Pine Bluff
Food safety is not just a regulatory compliance matter—it’s a cornerstone of public health. In Pine Bluff, the Arkansas Department of Health diligently oversees the food industry, ensuring the safety of our culinary delights across various establishments. From bustling restaurants to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, inspections are conducted unannounced to maintain high standards.
For those looking to dive deeper into food inspection results, electronic copies of retail food inspection reports can be accessed via the Arkansas Food Inspection Portal. Let’s explore some key findings from recent inspections that underscore the importance of food safety.
Recent Inspection Highlights
Department of Corrections (DOC) Tucker
Inspection Date: June 23
During the inspection at DOC Tucker, several concerns were flagged:
Hot Food Temperature Violations: Chicken noodle soup (109°F) and green beans (114°F) were found below the safe temperature range of 135°F or above. Foods must be reheated to 165°F before serving to prevent bacterial growth. The manager noted these items had been prepared just half an hour prior to inspection.
Cold Food Temperature Violations: Milk stored at 44°F in the walk-in cooler also failed to meet safety standards. It was later moved to a functioning cooler, but ultimately, it was deemed unsafe and discarded. Proper temperature maintenance is crucial—TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods should always be kept at or below 41°F.
- Action Taken: A maintenance request for the deficient walk-in cooler has been submitted, with orders to avoid storing sensitive foods until repaired.
Department of Corrections (DOC) Max Unit
Inspection Date: June 23
At the adjacent DOC Max Unit, additional violations were observed:
Lack of Paper Towels: The absence of paper towels at the handwashing station raised immediate concerns. Each food prep area must be equipped with either single-use towels or an efficient drying system.
Unsafe Food Temperatures: Once again, beans were found at 99°F in the hot box. Time markers were placed to ensure that these items are discarded after four hours, emphasizing a critical point in safety protocols.
- Pest Control Measures Lacking: Observations of flying insects prompted reminders to maintain a pest-free environment through regular inspections and necessary pest control actions.
Baje Cafe and Catering LLC
Inspection Date: June 23
Notably at Baje Cafe and Catering, the inspection revealed that:
- Ineffective Cloth Usage: Wiping cloths were discovered resting on countertops, which poses a risk for cross-contamination. Proper usage and storage of cleaning materials are vital.
Sam’s Southern Eatery – Progress Report
Follow-Up Inspections: June 19, 23, and 25
Sam’s Southern Eatery faced multiple temperature-related violations during initial inspections. Here’s a look at their proactive rectifications:
Prepping for Success: Chicken and various vegetables were found exceeding safe temperature limits, prompting a follow-up inspection that verified necessary corrections were adopted.
- Commitment to Compliance: By June 25, all previous violations had been successfully addressed, showcasing an impressive turnaround in their food safety practices.
Final Thoughts on Food Safety
In conclusion, ongoing vigilance in food safety is key to protecting public health in Pine Bluff. Whether you’re a business owner or a food enthusiast, being informed about food safety practices can make all the difference.
Stay proactive and ensure your favorite dining spots are up to standard by visiting the Arkansas Department of Health website. Remember, food safety is everyone’s responsibility, and being educated is the first step towards making safer food choices.
