Shocking Topeka Inspection Results: Moldy Food, Sewage Backups, and Bourbon Infested with Insects!

Last month, food safety inspectors found troubling issues in Topeka restaurants. Some extreme cases included moldy habanero peppers and an insect in a bottle of whiskey. These violations highlight the importance of food safety in our local dining spots.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture oversees food safety for establishments across the state. They monitor food processing and lodging facilities. When an inspection uncovers serious violations directly linked to foodborne illnesses, the establishment can be closed immediately. In January, 41 service establishments in the Topeka area were inspected. While many passed, a few had serious issues that needed addressing.

Here are some establishments that were found out of compliance:

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Inspected on January 24.
• This lodging place had 22 violations, including safety issues like non-working emergency lights and carbon monoxide detectors. Some rooms were unclean, and the fitness area lacked sanitizing supplies.
• Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant: Inspected on January 23.
• The brewery had 11 violations, including a kitchen with sewage backup and a lack of procedures to prevent cross-contamination during food preparation.
• T’z Whiskey Barrel Lounge: Inspected on January 23.
• This inspection revealed expired food items, including hot dogs and beef sausages. The kitchen also lacked proper food thermometers.
• Thunderbirds Grille: Inspected on January 22.
• Eight violations were noted, including insect infestations and improperly stored food. A cooler was unplugged, putting perishable items at risk.
• China Pavilion: Inspected on January 15.
• Ten violations found included food stored inappropriately, such as raw chicken above cooked dishes, which raises serious cross-contamination concerns.
• McDonald’s: Inspected on January 15.
• The kitchen dealt with sewage backup issues and didn’t report the immediate health hazard, leading to voluntary closure.
• The Big Biscuit: Follow-up inspection on January 13.
• This location had one issue related to the temperature of water in the restroom sink.

All these establishments managed to correct their issues and regain compliance after follow-up inspections. It’s a reminder of the importance of food safety for our health and well-being.

Food safety isn’t just a concern for inspectors; it’s something we should care about too. When dining out or cooking at home, keeping food at safe temperatures and maintaining cleanliness are key to preventing foodborne illnesses.

Stay informed and be aware of food safety around you. Together, we can help ensure our meals are safe and healthy!