NOODLES IN THE POT in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/14/23

CHICAGO, IL - Health department officials identified compliance issues at NOODLES IN THE POT in an inspection dated 04/14/2023.

The facility operates from 2453 N HALSTED ST in Lincoln Park, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 5 distinct violations requiring correction. These findings represent specific conditions observed during the inspection that must be addressed to meet health code requirements.

The first violation related to sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Food & Non-food Contact Surfaces Cleanable, Properly Designed, Constructed & Used - Comments: Must Not Use Cardboard As a Guard/shield in the Back of the Ice Machine. Guards Must Be Smooth and Cleanable.. 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 second violation concerned sanitization. Inspectors documented: Non-food/food Contact Surfaces Clean - Comments: Table Top Can Opener with Rust and Encrusted Food Debris. Must Clean After Each Use. Remove Rust. Clean 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. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

The third violation concerned handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Physical Facilities Installed, Maintained & Clean - Comments: Water Damaged Ceiling Tiles in the West Customer Washroom. Must Replace.----damaged Ceiling in the Basement Above Dry Food Storage. Must Repair to Be Smooth and Cleanable.----excessive Grease Under the Wok Cooks Line. Must Clean 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. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The fourth violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Adequate Ventilation & Lighting. Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The fifth violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Designated Areas Used - Comments: Inoperable Ventilation in Both the Far East Customer Washroom and Employee Washroom. Must Repair/replace.. 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. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands.

Establishments receiving violations must submit correction plans and may face additional inspections. Failure to address violations can result in fines, permit suspension, or closure.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/14/2023 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.