Beaufort County Restaurants Face Low Health Inspection Grades

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Health inspection checklist for Beaufort County restaurants

News Summary

In January, several Beaufort County restaurants received low grades during health inspections, sparking concern among diners. El Don Juan and Okko were among those initially scoring below passing. However, both quickly improved their grades after reinspections. Other establishments like La Mexicana, La Poblanita, and El Super Inc. also encountered issues but are working to rectify them. The Health Department conducted a total of 215 inspections in the area, highlighting the importance of food safety for local diners.

Health Alert: Beaufort County Restaurants Receive Low Grades in January Inspections

Beaufort County, it’s time to take a closer look at the *dining scene*! According to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, five restaurants received *less-than-stellar grades* during their January health inspections. And while the culinary delights in the area are usually top-notch, a few spots stumbled this time around. Let’s break down the findings and see who shined and who needs to polish up their act!

El Don Juan – A Rocky Start But a Happy Ending

On January 8, El Don Juan kicked off the month with a score of 83% (B) during its routine inspection—definitely something to raise an eyebrow about. A handful of issues were flagged, including *inadequate hand washing* practices, *blocked hand washing stations*, and some *serious storage mishaps* with chemical sanitizers and food items. Not to mention, food handlers were caught using a food sink for hand washing, which is definitely a no-go!

The good news? They were quickly back on track! When reinspected on January 17, El Don Juan redeemed itself with a perfect score of 100% (A)! Now, that’s what we like to see!

Okko – On the Wrong Side of the Health Scale

Next up is Okko, which had a mediocre score of 78% (B) in its January 13 inspection. They faced several issues, such as an employee drinking without a lid near food, *dirty glove usage*, and blocking hand wash sinks. It doesn’t stop there—there were also temperature troubles for stored food and personal items improperly stored in food prep areas.

But nothing like a little hard work to turn things around! After a reinspection on January 21, Okko soared to a score of 100% (A). Talk about a turnaround!

La Mexicana – A Bumpy Ride

Then we have La Mexicana, which received a 75% (C) on January 14. Ouch! Issues ranged from dirty utensils being washed in the hand sink (yikes!) to improper food temperature control and even food mixed with medications! They had a mountain to climb but did so swiftly. After a reinspection on January 27, they bounced back with the perfect score of 100% (A)!

La Poblanita – Still Needs a Little TLC

On January 27, La Poblanita scored 81% (B). They, too, had their fair share of health hiccups, including *blocked hand sinks* and temperature control for chicken and pork. Dirty debris in the meat fridge? Not exactly appetizing. As of February 6, they haven’t undergone reinspection yet, but it’s required within 10 days. Fingers crossed for a smooth inspection!

El Super Inc. – Not So Super This Time

Meanwhile, El Super Inc. scored a 96% (B) during a follow-up on January 28, but not without issues. Pests found their way in through entry points, and there were missing chlorine test strips. They, too, haven’t been reinspected yet but have been given 10 days to correct these concerns!

China Wok – A Taste of Trouble

Last but not least, China Wok fell short with an 86% (B) on January 30. Major concerns highlighted were a lack of a date-marking system, improper food storage methods, and a significant grease build-up in the kitchen. Just like the others, they are also due for a reinspection within the next 10 days.

What’s Next?

In total, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control conducted 215 inspections in Beaufort County throughout January. For the curious diners out there, inspection results are posted online, and new food-grade decals now feature QR codes for easy access to the latest health reports. So, before you indulge in those tempting local flavors, make sure to check out the grades! Your palate—and health—will thank you!