In the latest Dirty Dining report, a college bar on Mill Avenue in Tempe and a Mexican restaurant in Gilbert have been flagged for health code violations. Maricopa County's Environmental Services Department conducts regular inspections, focusing on "risk factors" that are considered major health code violations. These violations can pose potential health risks to patrons.

One of the violations discovered was the improper storage of raw chicken above raw beef and pork. This violation violates basic food safety protocols and increases the risk of cross-contamination. Additionally, pans of cheese were found to be stored at incorrect temperatures, potentially compromising their freshness and safety.

Other violations include the absence of sanitizer in the dishwashing machine, which is crucial for effectively disinfecting utensils and dishes. Furthermore, an employee was observed handling cabbage with bare hands, violating proper hygiene practices.

The inspections also uncovered issues with dishwashers at these eateries. One of the dishwashers was not cleaning properly, indicating potential sanitation concerns. It was also noted that the dishwasher was not reaching the required temperature for proper cleaning and sanitization.

In terms of food storage, guacamole and sour cream were found to be inadequately refrigerated, raising concerns about food safety. Raw chicken and raw beef were also not stored at the appropriate temperatures, increasing the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses.

The Varsity Tavern on 501 S Mill Ave in Tempe was found to have a window cleaner stored above plastic cups, posing a risk of chemical contamination. Additionally, cooked cheese was not kept at the required hot temperature, potentially compromising its safety.

At the Mexican restaurant in Gilbert, a deli slicer was found with dried food debris, indicating inadequate cleaning and sanitization practices. The misting system in the establishment was also not installed properly, potentially creating an environment suitable for bacterial growth.

In another concerning observation, an employee was seen touching dirty dishes and then handling clean ones, highlighting potential cross-contamination risks. Furthermore, an employee was observed touching ice with bare hands, again disregarding basic hygiene practices.

Owners and management of these establishments have been notified of the violations, and they are required to address and rectify the issues promptly. Failure to comply with health code regulations can result in penalties and even closure of the premises until the violations are resolved.

Consumers are advised to review the inspection scores and reports available on Maricopa County's website to make informed decisions about where to dine.

It is important for restaurant owners and staff to prioritize food safety and proper hygiene practices to maintain a healthy dining experience for their patrons. Regular inspections and reports like the Dirty Dining report play a crucial role in ensuring that food establishments adhere to health code regulations and provide safe meals to the community.