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

In the bustling city of Lubbock, Texas, where residents rely on the local food scene to satisfy their culinary cravings, a recent inspection report has shed light on some concerning issues lurking behind the scenes. This in-depth investigation delves into the violations uncovered at two popular establishments, shedding light on the importance of maintaining the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

Exposing the Unsavory: Lubbock's Food Safety Concerns

Orlando's: A Troubling Tally of Violations

The Italian restaurant, Orlando's, located at 2402 Ave. Q, found itself on the wrong side of the Food for Thought list this week, with a staggering 26 violations. The report paints a concerning picture, revealing a series of issues that put the safety and well-being of patrons at risk.One of the most alarming findings was the discovery of several food items stored at temperatures above the safe threshold of 41 degrees Fahrenheit. This included ham, roast beef, raw hamburger patties, and ground beef, all of which should have been kept at a lower temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. The thermometer inside the cooler was found to be reading a concerning 60 degrees, further exacerbating the problem.Additionally, the inspection uncovered issues with the proper labeling and dating of food items, such as sausage and soup, which lacked the necessary date markings. This lack of traceability and accountability raises questions about the freshness and handling of these products.Unsanitary conditions were also a concern, with an accumulation of black debris found inside the ice machine chute, and the absence of paper towels at a hand-washing sink. The report also noted the storage of dirty utensils alongside clean ones, as well as the presence of damaged, cracked, and broken utensils being used alongside good ones. The discovery of a broken knife tip further highlighted the need for better equipment maintenance and replacement protocols.Worryingly, the report also revealed that first aid supplies were stored above single-use items and clean utensils, posing a potential cross-contamination risk. An accumulation of dead insects was found in the electronic insect control device, and an open package of commercially prepared corn dogs had an accumulation of frozen condensate, indicating a lack of proper storage and handling procedures.The report also highlighted concerns about the cleanliness of the facility, with the ceiling of the WIC (Warewashing Integrated Compartment) found to be soiled with an accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris. A can opener blade, not in immediate use, was also found to be soiled with an accumulation of food debris.The inspection uncovered further issues, such as the storage of personal belongings on packaged, uncooked, dry pasta, and the presence of an employee's personal cell phone and drink on the premises, raising questions about the establishment's adherence to proper food handling and hygiene protocols.

HTeaO: Concerning Lapses in Food Safety

The popular beverage establishment, HTeaO, located at 5105 98th Street, also found itself on the bottom of the Food for Thought list, with 13 violations reported.One of the primary concerns was the discovery of cut fruit stored at temperatures above the safe cold threshold of 41 degrees Fahrenheit. This raises questions about the establishment's ability to maintain proper food storage and temperature control, which is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.The report also revealed issues with the strength of the sanitizer solution used in the ware wash and sanitizer buckets, which was not at the required concentration to effectively kill pathogens. This lapse in proper sanitation practices could lead to the potential spread of foodborne illnesses.Furthermore, the inspection found that the two-compartment sink was being used to wash dishes, instead of the recommended three-compartment sink, which is designed to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitization. This deviation from standard protocols raises concerns about the establishment's ability to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness.The report also noted that a sanitizer bucket was placed on top of a prep table, potentially compromising the cleanliness of the surface and increasing the risk of cross-contamination.Concerns were also raised about the date marking of cut oranges, which were found to have the wrong date, and the ice machine, which was not plumbed correctly, potentially leading to issues with water quality and ice purity.The inspection also uncovered several other violations, including the storage of sanitizer buckets with cloths in use that were not submerged in the sanitizer solution between uses, and the storage of individually packaged cut ready-to-eat (RTE) and temperature-controlled for safety (TCS) items, such as cucumbers, strawberries, pineapple, and peaches, in water-filled containers, allowing the water to infiltrate the packaging and come into direct contact with the food.Additionally, the report noted the improper storage of a scoop in a container of yellow lemonade mix, with the handle in contact with the mix, as well as the storage of two boxes of single-use cups on the floor, which could lead to contamination.The inspection also revealed an accumulation of debris on the non-food-contact surface of the south ice machine, and the storage of an employee's personal food above cut RTE/TCS fruits and vegetables, posing a potential cross-contamination risk.

Redemption and Restoration: Lubbock's Top Performers

Amidst the concerning findings, the report also highlighted some positive news, showcasing the establishments that have maintained exemplary food safety standards. Taste of Cali, a food truck, and Mijo's Tex-Mex BBQ, another food truck, were recognized as Top Performers, demonstrating that it is possible to operate a successful food business while prioritizing the health and safety of customers.These establishments serve as a testament to the fact that with the right practices, procedures, and commitment to food safety, Lubbock's food scene can thrive while ensuring the well-being of its patrons. Their recognition as Top Performers provides a glimmer of hope and a roadmap for other establishments to follow, as the city strives to uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.