DeKalb County health officials, known locally as the “Kitchen Cops,” conducted routine inspections this week at several restaurants across the county. Their findings highlight a range of food‑safety and sanitation problems that could affect diners if not promptly corrected.
Collinsville’s Hacienda Real cited for rodent contamination
Hacienda Real, located on South Valley Avenue in Collinsville, received a score of 72. Inspectors discovered rodent droppings in a separate storage building, indicating a breach in pest‑control protocols. In addition, gray sewage water was observed backing up onto the kitchen floor from the sink and dishwasher, and a restroom was noted to be lacking soap. The health department has ordered immediate remediation to prevent any health risk to patrons.
Jack’s on Highway 75 in Geraldine earns an 82 but fails on food storage
Jack’s, a roadside eatery on Highway 75 in Geraldine, earned an 82. While the overall score was acceptable, inspectors found raw chicken, pork and bacon stored alongside ready‑to‑eat items, a practice that violates proper separation guidelines. An overflowing toilet in the restroom was also documented, raising concerns about sanitation and waste management.
Powell Quickmart on Main Street cited for improper storage
The Powell Quickmart, a convenience store on Main Street, received an 83. Health officials noted raw eggs stored improperly and paint cans placed next to single‑use food items, both of which present contamination risks.
Huntsville’s Sac’s Kitchen receives the lowest county score
In Huntsville, Sac’s Kitchen on Mastin Lake Road posted the lowest score in the Tennessee Valley this week, with a 70. Violations included a sink nozzle that was not properly installed, a hand‑washing sink containing ice, and cracked containers in the storage area. Temperature controls also failed: tomatoes and lettuce were kept at the wrong temperature, and the dish‑washing sink did not reach a sufficiently hot temperature to ensure proper sanitization.
Other establishments cited
M&K’s Jamaican Restaurant on Jordan Lane earned an 81 after inspectors found flies and gnats in the storage area, a blocked hand‑washing sink, and chicken and mac & cheese stored at improper temperatures. New China on Madison Boulevard in Madison also received an 81, with a dented can in storage, missing paper towels at a hand‑washing sink, and shrimp not being cooled adequately.
County response and next steps
DeKalb County health officials emphasize that these inspections are part of an ongoing effort to protect public health and maintain high standards for local food service establishments. Business owners are required to address the cited violations within a specified timeframe and may be subject to follow‑up inspections. The health department encourages diners to report any concerns and reminds restaurants that maintaining clean, pest‑free environments is essential for community safety.
For more information on upcoming inspections or to view detailed inspection reports, residents can visit the DeKalb County Health Department website or contact the department directly.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
