In September 2024, Kansas food safety and lodging inspectors uncovered numerous violations across nine Topeka establishments, citing significant issues like moldy wastewater, bed bugs, and cross-contamination risks. Kansas law, which assigns the Kansas Department of Agriculture the authority to regulate food and lodging establishments, ensures public safety by enforcing compliance. While most inspections led to positive results, several businesses were found in breach of state regulations, raising concerns about public health and safety.
Serious Violations and Health Hazards
During routine and complaint-driven inspections, inspectors identified various infractions, some posing serious threats to public safety. From pest infestations to improper food handling, the violations recorded illustrate ongoing challenges in maintaining hygiene and safety standards in some establishments.
- Super 8, 5968 S.W. 10th Ave.: Inspectors found six violations, including bed bugs in four rooms, which led to the temporary closure of these rooms. The hotel also failed to notify regulators of the bed bug issue, violating state law. Other violations included a lack of proper fire safety equipment and unclean conditions in various rooms. A follow-up inspection was scheduled.
- G’s Frozen Custard, 1301 S.W. Sixth St.: Refrigeration failures caused food to be stored at unsafe temperatures. Other issues included the presence of insecticide not approved for food establishments and leaky plumbing, leading to four violations.
- Bige KCQ-N-Smoke, 4415 S.E. Michigan Ave.: The inspection revealed significant sanitation lapses, including employees neglecting to wash hands after setting up the mobile unit, and improper glove use. Additionally, more than 20 flies were present in the food prep area.
Food Handling and Cross-Contamination Risks
Cross-contamination and improper food handling were recurring issues across several establishments. These practices pose significant risks for foodborne illnesses, making them a top priority for inspectors.
- 7.8.5 Kitchen, 2028 S.W. Gage Blvd.: Nine violations were reported, including serious cross-contamination risks where raw chicken and beef were stored above ready-to-eat food in the refrigerator. Moldy wastewater collected in a leaking garbage disposal and improper hygiene practices further raised alarm. Inspectors also found unapproved products from Facebook sellers being sold in the establishment.
- Ling’s Cafe, 2024 N.W. Topeka Blvd.: In addition to using containers that were not properly cleaned and sanitized, the restaurant failed to maintain proper food storage temperatures. A follow-up inspection revealed further issues, including caked residue in the meat grinder and inadequate food cooling systems.
Pest Infestations and Environmental Concerns
Pest infestations and unsanitary conditions were found in several locations, compromising food safety standards. The presence of rodents and insects can lead to contamination and increased health risks for consumers.
Establishment |
Main Violation |
Additional Details |
---|---|---|
Smallcakes Topeka |
Fresh rodent droppings found under a shelf |
Pest control measures were inadequate |
Yard Link Foods |
Inadequate refrigeration and thermometer |
The establishment used a residential refrigerator |
Sonic Drive In |
Inadequate hot water for dishwashing |
Boiled water was used for dishwashing |
Recovery and Compliance Efforts
Not all news was grim. After receiving citations, several establishments acted quickly to rectify the issues identified by inspectors. Follow-up inspections showed a marked improvement in many cases.
- Smallcakes Topeka: After addressing the rodent issue and sealing gaps, the establishment was back in compliance by early October. Similarly, Bige KCQ-N-Smoke passed a re-inspection after resolving sanitation problems and improving hygiene practices.
- Hardee’s and Sonic Drive In: Both fast-food establishments fixed issues with hot water systems and met compliance standards after prompt follow-ups.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture’s efforts in inspecting nearly 100 establishments in Topeka in September emphasize the importance of routine checks and strict regulatory compliance. While many businesses met safety standards, the violations found in some establishments serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in food safety and lodging operations.