As the spooky season approaches, a recent health inspection report in Lubbock, Texas, has revealed a stark contrast in the food safety practices of local eateries. While some establishments are celebrating a perfect score, others have been cited for a concerning number of violations, raising concerns about the quality and safety of the dining experience they provide.

Uncovering the Good, the Bad, and the Unsanitary

Chuy's Mexican Food: A Cautionary Tale

Chuy's Mexican Food, located at 4805 S Loop 289, found itself on the wrong side of the health inspection, racking up a staggering 37 violations. The report paints a troubling picture, with issues ranging from improper food storage and handling to unsanitary practices. Cooked chicken and beans were not maintained at the required minimum temperature of 135 degrees, putting customers at risk. Cross-contamination was a significant concern, with containers of corn salsa, a broken egg, and shredded cheese being discarded due to unsafe storage practices. Raw beef was stored above cooked taquitos and raw fajita meat, further increasing the potential for cross-contamination. Additionally, a container of carrots in the walk-in cooler was found to be visibly molded, and a bag of sliced jalapenos was discovered inside a container of salad, highlighting the lack of attention to food safety protocols.The inspection also uncovered issues with employee hygiene and sanitation practices. Staff were observed putting on gloves without first washing their hands, and a hand sink was used to dump jalapenos, store a spatula, and a piece of wire, instead of being reserved for handwashing. Utensils were found to be in poor repair, and a food processing scale had a piece of unsealed wood taped to the digital screen, further compromising food safety.

O'Hana Ramen & Sushi Bar: Sushi Safety Concerns

O'Hana Ramen & Sushi Bar, located at 5214 98th St, also faced a significant number of violations, with 19 issues identified during the inspection. The report highlighted concerns about the temperature of raw salmon, tuna, cream cheese, and cooked eel used for sushi, which were found to be above the safe cold temperature of 41 degrees, leading to their disposal. Additionally, multiple heavily dented cans were discovered, which can potentially lead to the growth of dangerous botulism bacteria.The inspection also revealed issues with employee handwashing practices, as employees were observed washing their hands in a prep sink rather than the designated hand sinks. Hand sinks were also being used to store personal items, such as an employee's drink, cups, a scrubbing pad, and a towel, further compromising their intended purpose for handwashing.

Celebrating the Top Performers

Amidst the concerning findings, the report also highlighted the positive performance of several local establishments. McDonald's at 4220 98th, Starbucks inside the United at 4425 19th, Bubba and Brey's Grilled Cheese (food truck), Pinky's (food truck), and Mi Kocina (food truck) all received perfect scores, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene.These top-performing establishments serve as a testament to the importance of diligent food safety practices and the ability of local businesses to prioritize the well-being of their customers. Their exemplary performance during the health inspection is a reassuring sign for the Lubbock community, providing a glimmer of hope in an otherwise concerning landscape.As the Halloween season approaches, the contrasting hygiene scores of Lubbock's eateries serve as a stark reminder of the critical role that food safety plays in the dining experience. While some establishments have clearly fallen short, the top performers shine a light on the possibility of excellence in the local food industry. Ultimately, the health and safety of the community should be the top priority for all food service providers, and this report serves as a wake-up call for those who have fallen short.