MASON CITY – The next time you eat at the Mason City Applebee’s and the waitress says “would you like soup or salad with that” – you might want to go for the fries.
According to the latest inspections performed by the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health in May and October of this year, potentially hazardous food was not maintained at 41° F or below and grill side prep station items (potato salad) tested at 43 degrees F. Also, several items in the center top cooler on the cook line were temped between 46-48 F.
Food poisoning can be caused by bacteria from foods that have been incorrectly stored, prepared, handled or cooked. Experts say that food contaminated with bacteria may smell and taste normal. If not stored properly, the bacteria in food can spread to a dangerous level.
According to inspection notes from the October inspection, “Cups of tomato basil soup in walk-in cooler are covered with vented lids and read 80 F at 3:45 then 70 F at 4:15. Check this cooling method to ensure this is getting the food cooled properly.” Applebee’s was told to re-check thermometers of walk-in cooler to ensure they are able to provide accurate readings. Neither report indicated that the temperature issues were corrected.
October 17, 2013 report: THIS REPORT MUST BE POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE
May 28, 2013 report: THIS REPORT MUST BE POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE
Our family was in the restaurant business for years. Establishments ARE required to post the results of their inspections in a “conspicuous place”. We posted as a matter of good practice and because we were proud of our product but most places don’t. The requirement is not uniformly enforced. Thanks NIT, you ran a similar story on several other establishments quite some time ago.
You’re welcome. We will do more.
Its funny that potato salad is not carried in this store. Potato soup was at the time of inspection. Soup and salad are 2 different temperatures
New York City requires all eating establishments to post their letter grade in the window or door where customers can easily see the grade the establishment earned after an inspection. It’s easy and convenient to walk by a restaurant with less than an “A”. I think this system keeps restaurants on their toes, because not many want to put a “D” or “F” in their window. They would be out of business in no time.
This should be done in CG county as well.
An excellent point. You don’t hear much about these inspections. Never posted in the restaurant and media won’t report it (would hurt advertising). Thanks NIT for the notice. Hope you do more of these.
Yes, even though you can go to the CG Public Health website to look at inspections, it is much easier to look at the grade on the door.
I think the inspection system in CG county is not all that convenient for the customers who spend money in these restaurants. I just really like the accountability that posting your inspection grade provides. It really is in the best interest of the customer, and then the customer can decide if they want to dine at the establishment.