Recently in Health Department Category

I got this from an Associated Press article today.

After a warning of possible salmonella poisoning in uncooked tomatoes, McDonald's and other fast food and grocery stores have stopped using or selling tomatoes in its U.S. locations, as a precaution.

The source of the tomatoes responsible for illnesses in at least 16 states has not been pinpointed.

McDonald's Corp., the world's largest hamburger chain, stopped serving sliced tomatoes on its sandwiches as a precaution until the source of the salmonella is known, according to a
statement Monday from spokeswoman Danya Proud.

The restaurant will continue serving grape tomatoes in its salads because no problems have been linked to that variety, Proud said.

Taco Bell and Chipotle Mexican Grill are also taking the same precaution.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said at least 23 people have
been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.

The FDA said Saturday the outbreak was linked to certain varieties of raw tomatoes
including red plum, red Roma and red round.

Ralphs, Vons and Albertsons stores have halted sales of the three varieties.

For lunch today, I went to In-N-Out and they also have a sign posted that they are not using tomatoes in their burgers.

Although, it's not the tomato itself that makes the burger, it was a little different not having that juicy fruit to bite into.

I hope they figure it out soon.

When a restaurant gets shut down by the Health Department, it's not only embarrassing for the restaurant owners/managers, it's also embarrassing for its customers.

On Thursday, Bishamon, a Japanese restaurant in downtown Covina, had this sign on the front door. "Closed due to construction."

The front window displayed the Health Department's closure notice. "Vermin infestation, no hot water, scored below 70."

I couldn't believe it. I've eaten at this restaurant at least a dozen times, and I go there about once a month. The restaurant has plenty of customers, and the sushi bar is usually full. I thought the food was pretty good and never dreamed about unsanitary conditions in the kitchen.

I've even taken my friends to Bishamon and recommended it to others. How embarrassing.

There's no way to know that these poor conditions were around when I dined there, but it certainly makes you wonder.