Zoku Sushi in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/14/23

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at Zoku Sushi during a routine inspection conducted on 04/14/2023.

The facility operates from 1616 N KEDZIE AVE in Logan Square, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 7 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-contact Surfaces: Cleaned & Sanitized - Comments: Observed Slight Build Up Inside Ice Machine. Must Clean Interior of Ice Machine 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 second violation concerned hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Warewashing Facilities: Installed, Maintained & Used. 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.

The third violation concerned food temperatures. Inspectors documented: Test Strips - Comments: Observed No Irreversible Registering Temperature Indicators to Measure the Utensil Surface Temperature Inside of the High Temperature Dish Machine. Management Instructed to Provide. Priority Foundation 7-38-005. 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. Time-temperature abuse allows harmful bacteria to multiply to levels that can cause illness.

The fourth violation related to cleaning procedures. Inspectors documented: Non-food/food Contact Surfaces Clean - Comments: Observed Accumulated Food/grease Build Up on Ventilation Hood/filters. Must Clean Ventilation Hood/filters 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. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

The fifth violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Plumbing Installed. Non-compliance with safety standards may create conditions that compromise food safety.

The sixth violation concerned handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Proper Backflow Devices - Comments: Dishwash Area Handwash Sink Pipe Draining Slowly. Instructed Manager Said Handwash Sink Pipe Must Drain Quickly.. 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 seventh violation concerned sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Physical Facilities Installed, Maintained & Clean - Comments: Observed Water Stained Ceiling Tiles Above Rear Prep Area. Must Replace All Water Damaged Ceiling Tiles 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. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

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 04/14/2023 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.