Chain restaurants are usually known for their consistency, not just in the food they serve but also in their cleanliness and adherence to health standards.
Typically, chain restaurants follow strict guidelines to ensure hygiene and safety, and franchises that fail to meet these standards can face severe consequences, including losing their franchise rights.
However, not all chain restaurants live up to these high expectations. A notable example is a Phoenix-area Domino’s Pizza location, which recently received a troubling health inspection grade.
On September 9, the Domino’s Pizza located at 1635 East Baseline Road in Phoenix was inspected by the county health department. This particular location, which has had five inspections in total, had previously only received one Priority Violation.
However, the latest inspection saw a significant increase in issues, with the restaurant receiving three Priority Violations.
What Are Priority Violations?
Priority Violations are serious issues that significantly increase the risk of foodborne illnesses or injuries. In addition to these three Priority Violations, the Domino’s also recorded three Priority Foundation Violations.
Priority Foundation Violations relate to basic health and safety procedures that support the prevention of Priority Violations.
Key Issues Found During the Inspection
One of the critical issues was a repeat violation: the restaurant lacked a Certified Food Protection Manager, which is mandatory for maintaining proper food safety practices.
This was not the first time the restaurant failed to present this certification, which is concerning for a chain restaurant known for its strict standards.
Another major problem occurred when an inspector noticed an employee handling food after using their personal phone without washing their hands.
Although the employee complied with the inspector’s request to wash their hands, this lapse in hygiene is a serious concern.
Two pans of chicken wings were found sitting on a tabletop at temperatures in the low 50s. For food safety, items in walk-in coolers should not exceed 41 degrees, and hot-holding food must remain above 135 degrees.
The staff admitted the wings had been sitting out for a while, so they were discarded immediately.
Additionally, the inspection revealed a chemical degreaser stored directly above sauces. This is a major safety issue as toxic substances must be kept away from food items.
The chemical was removed, and staff were instructed on proper storage practices to prevent contamination.
Finally, an employee with nail polish was seen handling food without gloves. Although the food was to be cooked, the potential for nail polish chips contaminating the food warranted immediate action.
The employee was asked to wear gloves to prevent any risk.
Why It Matters
Health inspections are crucial for ensuring that restaurants adhere to safety standards that protect customers from foodborne illnesses. Chain restaurants, in particular, are expected to maintain high standards due to their widespread presence and visibility.
This inspection’s findings highlight a lapse in the stringent cleanliness and safety protocols that Domino’s Pizza, as a major chain, is known for.
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What’s Next?
The health department’s report is a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and adherence to food safety standards. For consumers, it’s a cautionary tale about checking recent health inspection reports of their favorite dining spots.
For the restaurant, it’s a call to address these issues promptly to prevent future violations and protect their reputation.