Popeyes Faces Challenges, Implements Risk Control Plan to Ensure Food SafetyA Springfield fast food restaurant that temporarily closed last week has been put on a risk control plan, according to a report from the Springfield-Greene County Health Department's food inspectors. The Popeyes No. 775 location on South Glenstone Avenue closed due to standing wastewater in the kitchen, and a third cold-holding violation prompted the implementation of the risk control plan.

Ensuring Food Safety Through Proactive Measures

Addressing Recurring Violations

The risk control plan was put in place after Popeyes experienced three of the same priority violations in a row. These violations included employees using a breading table they had been previously instructed not to use and failing to keep time control logs. Risk control plans are implemented by inspectors to address recurring issues and ensure food safety.

Understanding Priority and Non-Priority Violations

Violations found during inspections are categorized as either priority or non-priority. Priority violations directly impact the safety of the food, such as cross-contamination, improper temperatures, and poor personal hygiene. Multiple priority violations can lead to a restaurant being shut down. Non-priority violations, on the other hand, do not directly affect food safety, but still need to be addressed, such as dirty floors or uncovered trash cans.

Frequency of Inspections

Food inspections in Springfield-Greene County occur one to three times per year, depending on the type of food served, the population served, the complexity of food preparation, and the establishment's past history. Restaurants that prepare food from raw ingredients are inspected more frequently than convenience stores that serve only non-potentially hazardous foods.

Transparency and Accountability

Each inspection report identifies the specific issues found at the time of the visit. Consumers are encouraged to refer to previous reports to determine if a violation is a one-time occurrence or a recurring pattern. This transparency allows the public to make informed decisions about the establishments they choose to patronize.

Addressing Violations and Maintaining Compliance

When a priority violation is identified, the inspector will work with the establishment to develop a plan to address the issue and ensure food safety. This may involve monitoring temperatures, checking sanitizer concentrations, or implementing other corrective measures. The goal is to help the establishment maintain compliance and provide safe, high-quality food to the community.

Ongoing Efforts to Improve Food Safety

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department's food inspections are an essential part of the community's efforts to maintain high standards of food safety. By working closely with local establishments, the department aims to identify and resolve issues proactively, ensuring that residents can enjoy their meals with confidence.