Beaufort County Restaurants Face Health Inspection Challenges: November Results Reveal Areas for Improvement

Beaufort County Restaurants Under Scrutiny: The November Health Inspection Results

Hey there, Beaufort County! Have you ever wondered how your favorite local eatery scored on their health inspection? Well, in November, we saw some restaurants not quite hitting the mark, as the South Carolina Department of Health conducted routine inspections throughout the area. From kitchen cleanliness to food safety practices, it’s crucial to know who’s keeping our plates safe!

Here’s the Scoop on the Health Grades

Four restaurants in Beaufort County were given “B” and “C” grades, indicating some areas for improvement. While most diners enjoy a great meal, we all want to be sure that it’s served in a sanitary environment. With that in mind, let’s break down the inspection results!

1. E-Tang: A Tale of Two Scores

First up, we have E-Tang, which received a 79% (B) on November 7 during a routine inspection. Inspectors noted some pretty concerning issues! There were inadequate handwashing supplies, including a lack of soap and drying provisions. Can you believe a chemical spray bottle was found unlabelled? It’s a big “no-no” in the kitchen!

The inspectors also spotted raw chicken and pork stored without any labels, which is a big red flag when it comes to food safety. To make matters worse, they found rat feces scattered throughout the kitchen! Yikes! And there were dirty linens improperly used as storage for clean glasses – not ideal, right?

But wait – there’s a silver lining! After a thorough clean-up, E-Tang was reinspected on November 21 and scored a perfect 100% (A). Hats off to them for taking swift action!

2. Agave Mexican Grille: Room for Improvement

Next on the list is Agave Mexican Grille, which scored 84% (B) on November 19. Like E-Tang, Agave had a list of concerns. They had raw foods like chicken and shrimp sitting unprotected. Not good! Inspectors also discovered some unsanitary conditions, including black organic matter in the ice machine and improperly marked food.

Food was improperly cooled and prepared, with some items being thawed in standing water instead of under running water – which can be a food safety hazard. Plus, utensils with food debris were mistakenly stored as clean. Gross! But just like E-Tang, Agave raised their game and was reinspected on November 21, scoring a shiny 100% (A).

3. Consistent Challenges at a Local Favorite

Another eatery, which scored 82% (B) on November 4, also faced similar issues. Inspectors found that handwashing practices were being neglected, with items stored in the handwashing sink, and eggs were improperly left at room temperature. No good!

With a lack of a proper dating system for food items and even a leak in the sink, this restaurant had its work cut out. However, they managed to score an A on a re-inspection just two days later, showing they take food safety seriously!

4. Last but Not Least: Another Restaurant’s Roller Coaster Inspection

Another restaurant scored a 79% (B) on November 12, highlighting issues like improper handwashing and food temperature control. Items were not being kept at the right temperatures, and a package of beef was thawing at room temperature – so not okay!

Despite the lack of cleanliness and some troubling food storage practices, this restaurant saw a boost after a follow-up inspection, scoring 95% (A) a day later. It’s heartwarming to see improvements!

A Comprehensive View of Inspections

In total, the South Carolina Department of Health conducted 225 inspections across Beaufort County during November, shedding light on the state of food safety in our beloved town. And remember, the health grades, ranging from A to C, aren’t just numbers; they represent an establishment’s commitment to keeping our food safe and delicious.

For those curious, recent food grade decals now come with a QR code, making it easier for you to check out the latest inspection report with just a scan. We all want to support our local businesses, but it’s important to know they’re running a clean kitchen!

So there you have it, Beaufort County! Let’s keep supporting our local restaurants while urging them to maintain the highest standards of hygiene, ensuring every meal is as safe as it is delicious!