In the realm of food safety, where the line between a delicious dining experience and a health hazard is often blurred, the recent inspections of Dauphin County restaurants have shed light on some concerning practices. From cockroaches scurrying across kitchen floors to moldy fish and improper food storage, these findings are a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to health and safety regulations. But what does this mean for the public? And what can be done to ensure that these violations are not just isolated incidents, but rather a call to action for the entire industry?
La Catrina, a restaurant located at 23 Briarcrest Square in Hershey, was found to have a multitude of issues. From a manual can opener with old food residue to live cockroaches and inadequate food safety knowledge among staff, this establishment was a breeding ground for potential health hazards. The inspection revealed a lack of proper pest control measures, with dead cockroaches found in sticky traps, indicating a persistent problem. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
El Rodeo, situated at 4659 Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton Township, also faced significant challenges. The inspection uncovered a lack of knowledge among staff regarding food safety, with improper storage of food items and an employee's beverage container found in the kitchen. The presence of moldy pineapple halves and breaded fish with visible mold-like growth is particularly disturbing. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers.
Swing At Lykens Valley, located at 1724 Route 25 in Upper Paxton Township, was not spared either. The inspection revealed a lack of knowledge among staff, with improper storage of food items and a bain-marie unit not maintained at the required temperature. The presence of mold-like accumulation on ice machines and food-contact surfaces is a serious issue, as it can lead to cross-contamination and potential foodborne illnesses.
Dairy Queen, at 1651 S. Cameron St. in Swatara Township, also faced multiple violations. From thermometers not being available or accessible to employees touching food with bare hands, the inspection highlighted a lack of proper food safety practices. The presence of a gray jacket and a beige hat in food storage areas is not only unsanitary but also a sign of poor organization and a lack of respect for food safety protocols.
Miso Sushi And Grill, located at 4620 Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton Township, was found to have food employees not wearing proper hair restraints and a lack of knowledge among staff regarding food safety. The inspection also revealed improper storage of food items and a low-temperature ware washing machine that did not dispense sanitizer at an adequate concentration. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
Longhorn Steakhouse, at 4590 Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton Township, was found to have an employee's cellphone charging on a food preparation table. While this may seem like a minor issue, it highlights a lack of awareness among staff regarding proper food handling practices. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers.
Simply Greek, located at 1190 W. Chocolate Ave. in Derry Township, faced violations related to employees touching food with bare hands and improper storage of food items. The inspection also revealed a lack of proper hair restraints among staff and improper storage of single-service, single-use articles. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
Papa John's Pizza, at 4200 Derry St. in Swatara Township, was found to have a plumbing system not maintained in good repair. While this may not seem like a direct health hazard, it can lead to cross-contamination and potential foodborne illnesses. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers.
Tico's Tacos, located at 4806 Derry St. in Swatara Township, was found to have cooked pork and chicken held at 115 degrees rather than 135 or above as required. The inspection also revealed a lack of proper hair restraints among staff and a lack of thermometers. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
Indian Curry Lounge, situated at 955 Eisenhower Blvd. in Swatara Township, was found to have wet wiping cloths not stored in sanitizer solution and kitchen knives with food residue. The inspection also revealed an empty paper towel dispenser at the handwash sink. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
Turkey Hill Minit Market, located at 2885 Paxton St. in Swatara Township, was found to have an employee eating in the food prep area. While this may seem like a minor issue, it highlights a lack of awareness among staff regarding proper food handling practices. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers.
Domino's Pizza, at 767 Middletown Road in Derry Township, was found to have a plumbing system not maintained in good repair. While this may not seem like a direct health hazard, it can lead to cross-contamination and potential foodborne illnesses. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers.
Rita's of Linglestown, located at 4151 Linglestown Road in Lower Paxton Township, was found to lack available sanitizer test strips or test kit to determine appropriate sanitizer concentration. The inspection also revealed a lack of proper documentation for the Certified Food Manager certificate. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
McDonald's, at 4605 Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton Township, was found to have an exit door in the back storage area with a gap that does not protect against the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals. The inspection also revealed an accumulation of food residue and a slime-like substance in the ice cream preparation machine. It is concerning to think about the potential health risks that patrons may have been exposed to, and the fact that this was not caught earlier is a cause for alarm.
However, not all restaurants failed to meet the required standards. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Moe's Pizza, Pilot Travel Center, Dollar General, Gio's Smokin Sisters, Hilton Garden Inn Harrisburg East, K. Schlegel Fruit Farm Open Air Market, Red Raven, Stoltzfus Pastries Open Air Market, Tello's Pizzeria, Towneplace Suites by Marriot Hershey, What If Of Hershey, Bonbon Tea, Dauphin Borough building, Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers, Starbucks Coffee, Challenge Family Fun Center, Country Cones, Freshido, Friendly's, Italian Delight, River House Bar and Grill, Beer Zoo, Dollar General, McDonald's, The Doghouse, Three B Ice Cream, and Turkey Hill Minit Market were all found to have no violations during the same period. These establishments have set a high standard for the industry, and it is crucial to understand that these successes are not just about meeting the minimum requirements; they are about creating a safe and enjoyable dining experience for customers.
In conclusion, the recent inspections of Dauphin County restaurants have revealed a range of issues, from cockroaches and moldy food to improper food storage and a lack of knowledge among staff. While some establishments have failed to meet the required standards, others have set a high standard for the industry. It is crucial to understand that these violations are not just about aesthetics; they pose a direct threat to the health of customers. The public has a right to know about these issues and to hold restaurants accountable for their actions. It is also important to recognize that these violations are not just isolated incidents, but rather a call to action for the entire industry to improve its practices and ensure the safety of its customers. By working together, we can create a safer and more enjoyable dining experience for everyone.
