THE UNIT in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/12/23

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at THE UNIT during a routine inspection conducted on 04/12/2023.

Situated at 2523 E 75TH ST, the establishment is part of Chatham's active food service sector. The Chatham area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.

The inspection identified 5 distinct violations requiring correction. Each violation has established correction procedures that must be followed to achieve compliance.

The first violation involved pest management. Inspectors documented: Person in Charge Present, Demonstrates Knowledge, and Performs Duties - Comments: Person in Charge with No City of Chicago Certified Food Manager Certificate. Instructed to Obtain.. The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Rodents can transmit Salmonella, Hantavirus, and other serious pathogens through their droppings and urine.

The second violation related to temperature control. Inspectors documented: City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate - Comments: Observed No City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Manager on Site While Time/temperature Control for Safety Foods (beef, Chicken, Deli Meat) Are Being Prepared Handled and Served to the Public. Priority Foundation. Citation Issued 7-38-012.. The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating.

The third violation involved handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Wiping Cloths: Properly Used & Stored - Comments: All Wiping Cloths When Not in Use Must Be Stored in a Clean Sanitizing Solution. Instructed to Correct and Maintain.. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The fourth violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Food & Non-food Contact Surfaces Cleanable, Properly Designed, Constructed & Used - Comments: Cutting Boards in Need of Replacing or Repairing Due to Deep Cuts Instructed to Clean or Replace.. FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

The fifth violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Toilet Facilities: Properly Constructed, Supplied, & Cleaned - Comments: Ladies Room in Need of Covered Waste Can Instructed to Obtain and Maintain. FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Cross-contamination from improperly sanitized equipment is a common cause of foodborne illness.

The correction of health violations is monitored through follow-up inspections and documentation requirements. Establishments must demonstrate that they have addressed the root causes of violations, not just the immediate symptoms.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/12/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Chicago Department of Public Health. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Chicago Food Service Sanitation Rules. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.