Essential Food Safety Tips: What You Need to Know – Pine Bluff Commercial News, June 22

The Arkansas Department of Health oversees food safety in places like restaurants, schools, and grocery stores. They conduct surprise inspections to ensure compliance with health standards.

You can view inspection reports online through the Arkansas Food Inspection Portal. Just visit the food protection page on the Arkansas Department of Health website.

Recent Inspection Highlights:

Sam’s Southern Eatery: Inspected on June 16. During the inspection, food containers were found uncovered, which is against safety guidelines. TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods, like shrimp and fish, were at unsafe temperatures (47°F). Additionally, sticky fly traps were incorrectly placed over the food prep area, which can contaminate food.

Rice First Class Catering: Also inspected on June 16. A wiping cloth was discovered on the countertop, which can spread bacteria. The counter itself had food residue, which needs to be cleaned more regularly.

Dub Brassell Adult Detention: Inspected on June 16. It’s important that at least one staff member is certified in food safety. Milk cartons were found on the floor of the cooler, risking contamination. They were moved off the floor during the inspection.

Colonial Steak House: On June 16, it was noted that single-use items were being reused, which is a serious health concern. The floors near cooking equipment were also dirty, indicating a need for better cleaning practices.

Charros: Inspected on June 17. Similar to the previous locations, there was a lack of certified food protection managers. The dishwasher failed to sanitize properly, and trash cans with food residue were left uncovered.

Insights on Food Safety Trends

Food safety has gained increasing attention in recent years. In a recent survey by the FDA, 39% of participants reported concerns about hygiene practices in food establishments. Social media reactions often highlight specific incidents, leading to a higher awareness among consumers about where they eat.

Experts emphasize the need for continuous training for food workers. According to a 2022 report by the Food Safety Alliance, establishments with certified managers had 50% fewer violations.

For up-to-date regulations and more detailed food safety information, you can visit the Arkansas Department of Health website.

Keeping our food safe is everyone’s responsibility. Regular inspections and adherence to guidelines help protect public health.

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