During September inspections, it was revealed that nine local establishments failed to meet state regulations, with alarming issues such as bed bugs, unwashed hands among staff, moldy wastewater, risks of cross-contamination, fresh rodent droppings, and other serious violations.
Records from the Kansas Department of Agriculture indicate that although the majority of the nearly 100 service establishments in the Topeka area inspected in September passed without any violations or only minor ones, a number did not succeed. While the majority of inspections were standard procedures, there were also visits prompted by complaints, licensing needs, follow-ups, and various other factors.
The following establishments were listed as out of compliance with state law after inspections in September.
- Super 8, 5968 S.W. 10th Ave.
On September 27, the revised complaint inspection revealed six infractions.
Four rooms have been shut down following the discovery of bed bugs, and they will remain unavailable for rental until inspectors deem them safe after thorough treatment and cleaning. The accommodation provider failed to inform authorities about the urgent health risk posed by bed bugs and continued its operations despite finding them. One of the rooms contained Ortho bed bug spray that was not meant for commercial use.
The smoke detector in the room designated for those with hearing impairments lacked a flashing strobe light. Numerous areas were filled with piles of waste and clutter.
A follow-up has been arranged for October 7th.
- G’s Frozen Custard, 1301 S.W. Sixth St.
A routine check on September 26th uncovered four infractions.
Milk, peaches, crushed pineapple, strawberries, raw cookie dough, and a squeeze bottle of blueberries were not kept cool enough by the refrigerator.
Sadly, chlorine test strips were not available. The Raid ant and roach spray can did not meet the necessary regulations for use in a food facility. The valve of a mop sink was leaking.
- Bige KCQ-N-Smoke, 4415 S.E. Michigan Ave.
- 7.8.5 Kitchen, 2028 S.W. Gage Blvd.
- Smallcakes Topeka, 1223 S.W. Wanamaker Road, Suite 300.
- Ling’s Cafe, 2024 N.W. Topeka Blvd.
- Yard Link Foods Goods and Services, 1017 N.E. Seward Ave.
- Sonic Drive In, 3820 S.W. 29th St.
- Hardee’s, 2424 W. Sixth St.
The state of Kansas has assigned the Kansas Department of Agriculture the responsibility for overseeing food establishments, food processing facilities, and lodging businesses. Serious breaches, especially those associated with the origins of foodborne diseases, may result in a range of repercussions, such as the prompt shutdown of a business.