Vigo County Health Department Uncovers Concerning Violations in Local Eateries

The Vigo County Health Department has released its latest round of food inspections, shedding light on a range of concerning issues found at various establishments in the area. From improper food storage and temperature control to unsanitary conditions, the report paints a troubling picture of the state of food safety in the region. As the community's health and well-being are of paramount importance, this comprehensive review aims to raise awareness and prompt immediate action to address these critical concerns.

Uncovering the Unsavory: A Closer Look at Vigo County's Food Safety Lapses

MK Sushi: Compromising Food Safety Standards

The inspection of MK Sushi revealed a concerning array of violations that jeopardize the establishment's food safety practices. Inspectors observed sushi rice being stored at room temperature from the previous business day, a clear disregard for proper temperature control. Additionally, raw pork, chicken, and fish were found stored in close proximity to ready-to-eat foods, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. Soups were also not being reheated to the appropriate temperatures within the required time limits, further compromising food safety. The report also noted the presence of multiple ready-to-eat food items without proper date markings, making it difficult to ensure food freshness and safety. Lastly, the inspectors found an excessive accumulation of dirty dishes from the previous business day, indicating a lack of proper cleaning and sanitization procedures.

Wendy's #29070: Unsanitary Conditions and Temperature Concerns

The Wendy's #29070 location faced its own set of issues, with inspectors noting the presence of black and dirty cooking oil in the fryers, as well as accumulated grease and debris on the clean dish storage rack. The hand wash sink was also found to be dirty and not maintained in a clean and sanitary manner. Perhaps most concerning, the inspectors observed shredded cheese being held at a temperature of 52°F, well above the recommended 41°F, and the prep cooler reaching temperatures above the safe limit, posing a significant risk to food safety.

Viking Foodmart: Unsanitary Equipment and Improper Food Storage

The Viking Foodmart was cited for several critical violations, including the accumulation of black debris on the soda nozzles and ice machine, as well as a hand wash sink that was dirty and covered in rust, lime scale, and other debris. The inspectors also found milk and other dairy items being stored at a temperature of 45°F, exceeding the safe limit of 41°F, further compromising food safety.

Marcos Pizza: Unsanitary Practices and Improper Waste Disposal

Marcos Pizza faced a range of issues, including an employee beverage being stored on a food preparation surface, accumulated carbon and debris on the pizza screens, and standing water in the dish area, as well as an overflowing grease trap. These conditions not only create an unsanitary environment but also raise concerns about the establishment's ability to properly dispose of waste and maintain a clean, safe workspace.

Copper Bar: Expired Food and Faulty Equipment

The Copper Bar was cited for multiple food items being held past their expiration date, as well as accumulated debris on the soda gun nozzle at the upstairs bar. Perhaps most concerning, the inspectors found a significant leak in the small walk-in food cooler, which could jeopardize the safety of the food stored within.

Little Caesars: Improper Storage of Personal Items

The Little Caesars location was found to have employee belongings, drinks, and foods stored on the food preparation table and on cases of food intended for use in the establishment, a clear violation of food safety protocols.

Sonic Drive-In: Temperature Control Failures

The Sonic Drive-In was cited for holding queso cheese on the steam table at a temperature of 80°F, well below the required 135°F, putting the safety of this menu item at risk.

Subway #297 (Pilot): Unsanitary Equipment

The Subway #297 (Pilot) location was found to have black accumulated debris on the soda nozzles in the lobby area, indicating a lack of proper cleaning and sanitization.

Taco Bell #3001014 and #3001080: Unsanitary Conditions

Both Taco Bell locations faced issues, with Taco Bell #3001014 having clean food containers with encrusted grease and accumulated debris on the 3-bay sink spray nozzle, and Taco Bell #3001080 having a food container with accumulated food and grease debris stacked with clean dishes.

A&G Mini Mart: Improper Sanitization Practices

The A&G Mini Mart was cited for not using a sanitizer in the three-bay sink for dishwashing, a critical violation that compromises the establishment's ability to properly clean and disinfect its equipment.

Insomnia Cookies: Improper Utensil Storage

Insomnia Cookies was found to have a bowl and ice cream scoop stored in the hand wash sink, a clear violation of proper food handling and storage protocols.

Qdoba Mexican Grill: Unsanitary Food Preparation Practices

The Qdoba Mexican Grill was cited for having an employee's drink without a lid sitting on a food preparation surface, creating the potential for contamination.

Speedway LLC #7718: Blocked Hand Wash Sink

The Speedway LLC #7718 location was found to have its hand wash sink in the kitchen blocked, preventing proper hand washing and hygiene practices.

Dairy Queen: Unsanitary Ice Machine

The Dairy Queen location was cited for having accumulated debris inside its ice machine, compromising the cleanliness and safety of the ice used in its beverages and desserts.

Subway #6334: Improper Mop Storage

The Subway #6334 location was found to have a mop resting in a bucket of water, rather than being properly hung to air dry between uses, as required by food safety regulations.

Establishments with No Violations

Amidst the concerning findings, the report also highlighted several establishments that were found to be in compliance with food safety standards, including Anna's Hands Soul Food @ The Station, The Commons at Honey Creek, Culver's at the Fairgrounds, Dollar Tree #07744, Five Star Convenience Store, Fort Harrison Mini Mart, Gingersnaps, Harris Family Catering (DBA: Nollie's), Meijer Gas Station #285, Pilot Travel Center, Scooter's Coffee, Sprinkles Cookie Co., Terre Haute Children's Museum, Vigo Bowl, and Walgreen's #7443.

Establishments Approved to Operate

The report also noted that Chick-Fil-A Terre Haute DBA Next Yes, LLC @ Union Hospital was approved to operate as of August 5.