Essential Food Safety Tips for August 31: Your Guide from Pine Bluff Commercial News

The Arkansas Department of Health keeps our food safe by regulating various places where food is sold, including restaurants, schools, and grocery stores. They perform surprise inspections by specialized health inspectors.

If you’re curious about food inspection results, you can find electronic copies of these reports on the Arkansas Food Inspection Portal at Arkansas Department of Health.

Recently, several establishments were inspected:

Dollar General Store, 901 S. Blake St.
On August 25, inspectors noted liquid on the back refrigerator’s bottom. Non-food surfaces should remain clean and dry.

Brooklyn’s Childcare Center, 1201 University Drive.
Also inspected on August 25, it was highlighted that at least one employee must hold a valid food safety certification.

Shell Stop N Shop, 5600 S. Olive St.
During an August 26 visit, inspectors found a dirty microwave and improperly stored chicken and breading. Food items should be kept at least six inches off the ground to avoid contamination.

Quality Inn and Suites, 2809 Pines Mall Drive.
This location had unclean kitchen floors during its August 26 inspection.

El Sol Mexican Restaurant, 3801 Camden Road Suite 9.
Also inspected on August 26, it was found that food must be covered to prevent contamination, and raw foods should not touch ready-to-eat items.

Casa Samantha, 1219 S. Main St.
This new location, inspected August 26, had issues with dishwasher temperatures and lacked necessary test strips. It’s essential for a dishwasher to reach a sanitizing temperature of at least 155.2°F.

Ensuring food safety is vital for public health. According to a recent survey by the Food and Drug Administration, nearly 80% of foodborne illnesses in the U.S. come from improper food handling. This emphasizes the importance of regular inspections and proper training for food handlers.

Staying informed through resources like the CDC’s food safety page can be a great way to learn more about keeping food safe. What do you think about food safety in your area? Are you aware of any trends or experiences related to food inspections?

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