Essential Food Safety Tips to Know: July 6 Updates from Pine Bluff Commercial News

The Arkansas Department of Health oversees food safety in various establishments, ranging from restaurants to schools and grocery stores. Inspections happen without warning, conducted by trained environmental health specialists.

You can find electronic retail food inspection reports on the Arkansas Food Inspection Portal at the Arkansas Department of Health website.

Recent Inspection Highlights

1. DOC-Randall L. Williams Correctional Facility

   • June 30 Follow-Up: Ice storage was initially uncovered but was covered during the inspection. Proper food storage practices are crucial for safety.
   • June 25 Inspection: Uncovered food and ice were observed. The facility’s dishwasher was not reaching required temperatures for safe sanitization, and dishes will need to be cleaned by hand until repairs are made.

2. Chick-fil-A (5701 S. Olive St.)

   • June 30 Follow-Up: Ice cream mix and milk were found at unsafe temperatures, above the recommended 41°F. Additionally, trash cans with food residue were uncovered when not in use.
   • June 26 Inspection: Similar temperature violations were noted for ice cream mix and milk.

3. ADC-Pine Bluff Work Complex

   • June 30 Follow-Up: Margarine was out of the safe temperature range and was promptly moved to the walk-in cooler for safety. One of the prep coolers showed an ambient temperature of 47°F.
   • June 25 Inspection: Beef was initially at 121°F, below the safe minimum. It was reheated properly before serving, but other items like sausage and meatloaf were also found to be unsafe.

Insights on Food Safety

Recent studies indicate that foodborne illnesses affect over 48 million people each year in the U.S. Temperature control is a leading factor in preventing these illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), keeping food at safe temperatures can reduce the risk of bacteria growth, which leads to foodborne diseases.

Moreover, social media trends show increased public discussion around food safety, with many users sharing experiences about inspections at their favorite restaurants. This grassroots awareness can encourage better practices at local eateries.

In summary, it’s essential for food establishments to adhere to safety guidelines. Regular inspections help catch issues before they become serious problems, protecting public health in Arkansas and beyond.

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