Thurston County Food Safety Scores: July 22nd
The latest inspection reports from Thurston County Public Health and Social Services reveal a mixed bag of food safety practices across various establishments. Here's a breakdown of the key findings and my analysis of the situation.
Bangkok Thai Restaurant
This restaurant received 45 red points and 0 blue points during the July 15th inspection. The main issue was with rice cooling, where it was kept in a covered pan on the lower shelf of a reach-in cooler, which is not the correct method. The temperature of the rice and tofu also fell short of the required 41 degrees. Additionally, an in-use sanitizer solution was too strong, indicating a potential lack of control over food safety.
My Take: Bangkok Thai Restaurant needs to address its cooling and sanitization practices immediately. The high red points suggest a serious risk of foodborne illness, and the lack of control over sanitizer concentration is a red flag. This restaurant should be reinspected soon to ensure compliance.
Trapper's Sushi
With 15 red points and 0 blue points, Trapper's Sushi had issues with food worker documentation. Upon request, they couldn't provide food worker cards, which is a critical oversight. Two sinks were also used as filling stations, lacking soap and splash guards, which is a major cleanliness violation.
My Take: The lack of food worker cards is a serious issue, as it indicates a potential lack of training and supervision. The use of sinks as filling stations is also concerning. This restaurant should prioritize obtaining the necessary documentation and ensuring proper handwashing practices.
La Quinta Inn and Suites
La Quinta Inn and Suites received 10 red points and 5 blue points on July 16th. The main issue was with cold-held milk, eggs, and yogurts, which were not maintained at the required temperature of 41 degrees or below. Additionally, a two-door cooler failed to maintain the proper cold-holding temperature.
My Take: The hotel's food service operation needs to focus on temperature control, especially for perishable items. The blue points indicate a need for better overall cleanliness and maintenance. Regular inspections and staff training may be necessary to improve their food safety record.
La Delicia Y Antojitos LLC
La Delicia Y Antojitos LLC had 10 red points and 5 blue points on July 14th. The inspection revealed issues with cold-held TCS foods, which were not maintained at the required temperature. An in-use sanitizer solution was also too weak, indicating a lack of control over food safety.
My Take: This restaurant needs to address its temperature control and sanitization practices. The weak sanitizer solution is a serious concern, as it can lead to foodborne illnesses. Reinspection and corrective actions are necessary to ensure compliance.
Taco Time
Taco Time received 5 red points and 0 blue points on July 15th. The issue was with lettuce in a walk-in cold hold, which was not maintained at the required temperature.
My Take: Taco Time should ensure that all perishable items, including lettuce, are stored at the appropriate temperature. This is a basic food safety practice that should be strictly followed to prevent potential contamination.
Lucky 7 Food Store
Lucky 7 Food Store had 5 red points and 0 blue points on July 15th. The main issue was with raw eggs being stored above ready-to-eat foods, which is a significant food safety violation.
My Take: Proper storage of raw animal products is crucial to prevent cross-contamination. Lucky 7 Food Store should ensure that all raw eggs are stored below and away from ready-to-eat foods to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
La Mansion Enterprise
La Mansion Enterprise had 0 red points and 5 blue points on July 16th. The issue was with an in-use sanitizing solution that was too weak.
My Take: Weak sanitizing solutions can compromise food safety. This restaurant should ensure that all sanitizers are properly diluted and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Bayview Market Place
Bayview Market Place had 0 red points and 5 blue points on July 16th. The issue was with an in-use sanitizer solution in a bucket that was too weak.
My Take: Similar to La Mansion Enterprise, Bayview Market Place should ensure proper sanitization practices. Weak sanitizers can lead to foodborne illnesses and should be avoided.
Olympia Seafood
Olympia Seafood had 0 red points and 5 blue points on July 15th. The issue was with raw shrimp and salmon being stored on the floor of a walk-in cooler.
My Take: Proper storage of raw seafood is essential to prevent contamination. Olympia Seafood should ensure that all raw seafood is stored in a clean and secure manner to maintain food safety standards.
Observations and Takeaways
These inspection reports highlight the importance of proper food storage, temperature control, and sanitization practices. The high number of red points in some establishments indicates a serious risk of foodborne illnesses. It is crucial for food service operators to address these issues promptly to ensure the health and safety of their customers.
My Final Thoughts: Thurston County's food safety inspections reveal a need for improved practices across various establishments. From cooling methods to sanitization solutions, these issues can have serious consequences. It is essential for businesses to prioritize food safety and take immediate action to correct any violations identified during inspections.
