In the world of food safety inspections, the Tri-Cities area of Kennewick, Washington, has been under the microscope. From August 1st to 7th, the Benton Franklin Health District conducted routine inspections, revealing a mixed bag of results. While some establishments received passing marks, others were deemed failing, highlighting critical issues that could impact public health.
One establishment that failed inspection was Biscuit., located at 1086 George Washington Way in Richland. The inspection noted inadequate handwashing facilities, with one sink having inadequate pressure and another not reaching the required temperature of 100F. Additionally, the restaurant struggled with hot holding temperatures, as cooked noodles for mac and cheese were found to be as cool as 120F, well below the necessary 135F. The preparation of raw eggs was also found to be improper, as eggs should only be mixed immediately before cooking.
Another failing inspection was at Bruchi’s, situated at 2615 W. Kennewick Ave. in Kennewick. The inspection revealed multiple issues, including inadequate hot holding temperatures, with three soups in the food warmer being as cool as 90F, far from the required 135F. Cold holding temperatures were also a concern, as sliced ham, cut lettuce, and cut tomatoes were found to be as warm as 50F due to an open lid during the lunch rush. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables were not properly washed, with lettuce being cut before rinsing and subsequently discarded.
The Coffee Bean, located at 840 Stevens Drive in Richland, received a follow-up inspection. The inspection highlighted a high-risk food item, cream cheese, without a date mark, and improper use of time as a control. The steamed milk, left out for use and cooled, was discarded due to the lack of a time mark.
Fiesta Foods (Deli), at 115 S. 10th Ave. in Pasco, also faced a follow-up inspection. The inspection noted inadequate hot holding temperatures, with fried chicken in the warmer being as cool as 120F, well below the required 135F. The warmer had to be repaired.
Trejo’s Mexican Restaurant, situated at 1833 W. Court St. in Pasco, received a failing inspection with 55 red violations. The inspection revealed improper cooling procedures, with birria broth being discarded, and inadequate cold holding temperatures, with cabbage being too warm and subsequently discarded. Additionally, the restaurant lacked adequate managerial control of food safety and had inadequate handwashing facilities.
On the other hand, there were establishments that passed inspection with flying colors. One such example is Amarilis’s Meat Market, located at 1825 W. Court St. in Pasco, which received a perfect score with no red violations. Similarly, Amon Eatz, situated at 702 George Washington Way in Richland, also passed with no red violations.
AZN Crispy Chicken, at 1415 George Washington Way in Richland, received 15 red violations, while Baskin Robbins, located at 2617 W. Kennewick Ave. in Kennewick, had no red violations. Botanas Locas El Solesito, at 102 N. 10th Ave. in Pasco, received 20 red violations, and Buffalo Wild Wings, situated at 8551 W. Gage Blvd. in Kennewick, had 25 red violations.
The Caffeine Bar, at 460 Williams Blvd. in Richland, received 10 red violations, and Carl’s Jr., located at 2804 W. Kennewick Ave. in Kennewick, had no red violations. Dollar Tree, at 1307 Jadwin Ave. in Richland, also passed with no red violations. El Charrito, at 130 N. 10th Ave. in Pasco, and Fiesta Foods (Bakery), at 115 S. 10th Ave. in Pasco, both passed with no red violations.
In conclusion, the food safety inspections in the Tri-Cities area have revealed a range of results, from failing to passing inspections. While some establishments have taken steps to improve their food safety practices, others have been found to have critical issues that could impact public health. It is essential for businesses to prioritize food safety to ensure the well-being of their customers and avoid potential legal consequences.
As an expert commentator, I find these inspections fascinating, as they provide a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts of food safety inspectors. What makes this particularly interesting is the variety of issues that can arise in different establishments. From inadequate handwashing facilities to improper holding temperatures, these inspections highlight the importance of consistent adherence to food safety standards. It is a constant battle to ensure that foodborne illnesses are minimized, and these inspections serve as a reminder of the vigilance required in the food industry.
In my opinion, these inspections should be a wake-up call for all food establishments. It is crucial to address the identified issues promptly and implement comprehensive food safety programs. By doing so, businesses can not only protect their reputation but also ensure the health and satisfaction of their customers. The health of the public should always be a top priority, and these inspections provide an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to food safety.
