MAC'S AMERICAN FOOD in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/13/23

CHICAGO, IL - MAC'S AMERICAN FOOD received citations for health code violations during an inspection on 04/13/2023.

The facility operates from 1801 W DIVISION ST in West Town, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 6 distinct violations requiring correction. Health inspectors document such issues to ensure establishments take corrective action promptly.

The first violation concerned thermal management. Inspectors documented: City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate - Comments: 2-101.11 Observed No Certified Manager on Duty While Tcs Items Such As Sandwiches Were Prepared. Instructed to Maintain an Employee Holding a Valid City of Chicago Foodservice Manager Certificate on Site at All Times. Priority Foundation Violation 7-38-012. Citation Issued.. 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. Improper temperature control can lead to bacterial growth including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

The second violation concerned sanitization. Inspectors documented: Food & Non-food Contact Surfaces Cleanable, Properly Designed, Constructed & Used - Comments: 4-501.12 Observed Cutting Board in Rear Food Prep Area Covered in Deep Grooves and Dark Stains. Instructed to Repair or Replace and Maintain Smooth, Cleanable Cutting Surfaces.. 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 third violation involved food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Plumbing Installed. Health code violations require correction to maintain safe operating conditions.

The fourth violation involved handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Proper Backflow Devices - Comments: 5-204.12 Observed No Backflow Prevention Device at the Utility Sink Located in the Basement. Instructed to Install Following All Relevant Laws, Rules, and Regulations.. 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. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The fifth violation involved food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Plumbing Installed. Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The sixth violation involved hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Proper Backflow Devices - Comments: 5-205.15 Observed Leak Coming From Faucet of 3 Compartment Sink Located in Rear Prep and Dish Area. Instructed to Repair or. 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 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 04/13/2023 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.