Onondaga County Restaurants Face Inspection Challenges

The Onondaga County Health Department has released its latest round of restaurant inspection reports, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by local food service establishments. From unsatisfactory ratings to critical violations, the reports highlight the importance of maintaining strict food safety standards in the region.

Ensuring Food Safety in Onondaga County

Pizza Cutters Catering: Minor Infractions

Pizza Cutters Catering, located at 3712 New Court Avenue in Syracuse, received an unsatisfactory inspection, with two violations identified. The inspector found various food items stored on the ground at the Taste of Syracuse event, which is a violation of proper food protection protocols. Additionally, the temporary hand washing station was not set up, indicating a lapse in sanitary facilities and controls. While these infractions were not deemed critical, they underscore the need for consistent adherence to food safety regulations.

K.Zumma: Critical Violations

K.Zumma, a restaurant situated at 435 North Salina Street in Syracuse, failed its health inspection, receiving two critical violations. The inspector found that a thermometer was not available to monitor the temperatures of temperature-controlled for safety (TCS) foods, a crucial oversight that could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. This issue was quickly resolved by borrowing a thermometer from a neighboring stand.The more concerning violation involved the improper cooling and refrigerated storage of potentially hazardous foods. The inspector discovered sausage and rice cake skewers at 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit, well above the recommended safe temperature range. Additionally, Kimbap, a Korean dish, was found stored at 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit in the refrigerator, indicating a failure to properly cool the food after preparation. As a result, approximately 30 pounds of sausage and 200 rolls of Kimbap were discarded to ensure food safety.

TGI Friday's: Multiple Violations

TGI Friday's, located at 306 Hiawatha Boulevard West within the Destiny USA shopping complex, received a total of 10 violations, with one being a critical violation. The critical violation involved the improper cooling and refrigerated storage of potentially hazardous foods, including sautéed mushrooms, various salsas, chicken cutlets, shrimp, and more. These items were found to be temping between 49-53 degrees Fahrenheit, well above the safe threshold of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, all of the affected items, totaling approximately 10 pounds, were voluntarily discarded.The inspection also uncovered several other issues, such as improperly stored food items, lack of chemical sanitizing test strips, unclean equipment and utensils, and the presence of small flying insects. These violations highlight the need for comprehensive cleaning, sanitization, and pest control measures to maintain a safe and hygienic food service environment.

Passing Inspections: A Positive Trend

While the reports revealed several establishments with unsatisfactory or failed inspections, it's important to note that many food service providers in Onondaga County successfully passed their inspections during the June 2 to June 8 period. These establishments demonstrated their commitment to upholding food safety standards and protecting the health and well-being of their customers.The Onondaga County Health Department's diligent inspection process serves as a crucial safeguard, ensuring that local restaurants and catering services adhere to the necessary regulations. By identifying and addressing issues promptly, the department plays a vital role in maintaining the overall quality and safety of the region's food landscape.As the community continues to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic era, the importance of robust food safety practices cannot be overstated. The Onondaga County Health Department's ongoing efforts to monitor and enforce these standards are essential in preserving the trust and confidence of local residents and visitors alike.