Atlanta Dining Health Inspections Reveal Troubling Scores in October 2024

Health Inspection Insights for Atlanta Diners!

Hey there, Atlanta! It’s that time of the month again, where we dive into the *health inspection scores* of your favorite dining spots. Staying informed not only helps keep your stomach safe but also assists local businesses in understanding and addressing common health and safety concerns. So grab your fork and let’s dig in!

A Little Background on Inspections

Health inspections focus on two main categories: foodborne illness risk factors and good retail practices. The first category deals with food preparation practices and employee behaviors that lead to illness outbreaks, while the second includes preventive measures to keep nasty pathogens, chemicals, and physical objects out of your food. Some violations can be fixed on the spot, while others have deadlines for correction.

Recent Failing Grades Uncovered

In the month of October 2024, a few establishments in Fulton County were found lacking, each receiving a score of “U,” which signals a poor health standing with scores of 69 points or less. Let’s take a closer look at these restaurants:

• 1509 Virginia Ave, College Park, GA 30337
  Date: Oct. 21, 2024
  Score: 66
  Previous Scores: 92 (April 10, 2024), 94 (May 8, 2023)
  Inspection Notes: Issues included a back door to the kitchen not properly sealed, dented cans, an unlabeled spray bottle, inadequate hand sinks, and broken tiles in both kitchen and dining areas.
• 57 Forsyth St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  Date: Oct. 2, 2024
  Score: 32
  Previous Scores: 80 (Oct. 19, 2023), 80 (May 26, 2023)
  Inspection Notes: Significant issues included mold in the ice machine, failure to wash hands before preparing orders, food debris inside and on the microwave handle, and a shocking mix-up of deli meats stored above raw eggs.
• 2000 Ray Moss Connector, Johns Creek, GA 30022
  Date: Oct. 30, 2024
  Score: 65
  Previous Scores: 93 (July 25, 2023), 96 (Jan. 15, 2021)
  Inspection Notes: This inspection pointed out the improper separation of raw and ready-to-eat foods, uncovered items in the kitchen, food debris in the microwave and can opener, and employee food stored with customer food.
• 708 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Date: Oct. 10, 2024
  Score: 62
  Previous Scores: 44 (Sept. 18, 2024), 80 (Jan. 12, 2023)
  Inspection Notes: Wing sauces were unlabeled, a number of chicken wings were found thawing in stagnant water in the meat prep sink, chicken was stored on the ground in the walk-in freezer, and flies were buzzing around with no sanitizer observed in the facility.

The Road Ahead

While it’s concerning to see these scores, there are solutions that can significantly enhance safety and hygiene. For instance, dirty ice machines tend to pop up repeatedly as a common issue in health inspections. To tackle this recurring problem, numerous dining establishments are opting for commercial ice machine subscriptions. These services ensure sparkling clean ice, essential for keeping your drinks fresh!

One option for owners is opting for a subscription service that offers not just equipment, but also preventive maintenance, repairs, and even a 24/7 ice service line. It’s a win-win for both businesses and customers!

As you grab a bite in our lovely city, remember that anyone can face health inspection hiccups. Stay tuned for the next round of updates next month! In the meantime, you can help keep your favorite spots running smoothly by encouraging them to stay on top of their inspections. And if you have any tips, tricks, or tidbits about openings or closings in your neighborhood, feel free to share!

Until next time, keep those bellies healthy and happy, Atlanta!