FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
POPEYE'S LOUISIANA KITCHEN Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
May 3, 2024
Canvass
License #2929866
20
Total Violations
11
Critical
2
Major
7
Minor
1
Corrected On Site
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
20
Violation #1
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES - Comments: PIC DOESN'T HAVE A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS CERTIFICATE.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAI.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012)
Why This Matters
Without knowledgeable supervision, critical food safety practices may be overlooked, significantly increasing risk of foodborne illness outbreaks affecting multiple customers.
Food Code Requirement
The person in charge must be present during all hours of operation, hold valid certification, and demonstrate food safety knowledge.
Specific Requirements
Person in charge must: Be present during all operating hours; Hold valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate; Demonstrate knowledge of foodborne disease prevention, HACCP principles, and Code requirements; Ensure employee compliance with food safety practices.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-102.11, 2-102.12
Violation #2
CRITICAL
Violation Details
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE - Comments: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WITH A VALID CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS CERTIFICATE NOR IDENTIFICATION WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED,HANDLED AND SERVED SUCH AS (CHICKEN.COLESLAW,RICE,ETC).MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Lack of certification indicates potential gaps in food safety knowledge, increasing risk of improper food handling and foodborne illness.
Food Code Requirement
Valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate required and must be posted.
Specific Requirements
Certificate must be: Current and valid; Posted conspicuously in public view; Held by person in charge during all operating hours; Renewed before expiration date.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-102.11
Violation #3
CRITICAL
Violation Details
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING - Comments: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICIES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Ill food workers cause 70% of foodborne outbreaks. Proper reporting prevents transmission of Norovirus, Hepatitis A, Salmonella, and other serious diseases.
Food Code Requirement
All food employees must understand and follow health reporting requirements and food safety responsibilities.
Specific Requirements
Employees must: Report illness symptoms and exposures; Be excluded/restricted when ill; Understand their role in preventing foodborne illness; Follow proper hygiene practices; Have signed health policy on file.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-201.11 - 2-201.13
Violation #6
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER EATING, TASTING, DRINKING, OR TOBACCO USE - Comments: OBSERVED FEMALE FOOD HANDLER CHEWING GUM WHILE PREPPING FOOD MANAGER HER HER TO REMOVE GUM DURING INSPECTION (COS)
Why This Matters
Hands are #1 vehicle for pathogen transfer. Bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods causes majority of foodborne outbreaks.
Food Code Requirement
Proper handwashing and no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Specific Requirements
Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water; Use utensils, deli tissue, or gloves for ready-to-eat foods; Wash hands after restroom, handling raw foods, touching face/hair, and between tasks.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-301.11, 2-301.12, 2-301.14
Violation #8
CRITICAL
Violation Details
HANDS CLEAN & PROPERLY WASHED - Comments: OBSERVED POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES BY MALE FOOD HANDLER OBSERVED HIM SWEEPING THE FLOOR AND THEN PUT ON GLOVES WENT INTO REACH IN FREEZER AND GRABBED A BAG OF FRENCH FRIES WITHOUT WASHING HANDS. MANAGER HAD EMPLOYEE TO WASH HANDS DURING INSPECTION.MUST WASH HANDS AFTER EVERY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION.(PRIORITY 7-38-010)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Improper sanitization fails to kill pathogens, allowing contaminated equipment to spread illness throughout facility.
Food Code Requirement
Sanitizing solutions and rinse water must meet specific requirements for effectiveness.
Specific Requirements
Chemical sanitizers: Chlorine 50-100 ppm, Quaternary ammonium 200-400 ppm, Iodine 12.5-25 ppm; Hot water: 171°F for 30 seconds or 180°F at dish surface; Test strips required; Proper contact time.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-501.114, 4-702.11
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT HAND WASHING SINK IN MAIN PREP AREA WHILE FOOD IS BEING PREPARED.SOAP WAS PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED HAND WASHING SINK IN DISH WASHING AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE OBSERVED 2- ORANGE BUCKETS STORED INSIDE OF HAND SINK BASIN.MANAGER REMOVED BUCKETS DURING INSPECTION.MUST KEEP ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(COS)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #22
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS SUCH AS 22LBS. COLE SLAW IN PREPACKAGED FOOD CONTAINERS RANGING FROM 46.4F-47.5F INSIDE OF PREP COOLER. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F OR BELOW.APPX.22LBS. $10.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
Why This Matters
Temperatures below 135°F allow bacteria to multiply, especially spore-formers that survive cooking.
Food Code Requirement
Hot foods must be held at 135°F or above.
Specific Requirements
Maintain 135°F or above; Check temperatures regularly; Proper hot holding equipment; Cannot reheat in hot holding units.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-501.16(A)(1)
Violation #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED A GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF REAR DOOR MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
Why This Matters
Pests spread numerous diseases through contamination.
Food Code Requirement
No pests or animals allowed in facility.
Specific Requirements
No evidence of pests; No live animals except service animals; Effective pest control program.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.111
Violation #46
MAJOR
Violation Details
GLOVES USED PROPERLY - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER NOT USING GLOVES PROPERLY.
Why This Matters
Improper glove use spreads contamination worse than bare hands.
Food Code Requirement
Single-use gloves must be used correctly.
Specific Requirements
Wash hands before donning; Change when contaminated; Change between tasks; Single use only; Not a substitute for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-304.15
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.CARDBOARD FROM DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVES.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON REACH IN FREEZER & WALK IN FREEZER,DAMAGED EXTERIOR TRIM ON ICE MACHINE.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP FROM WALK IN COMPRESSOR UNIT,LOWER SHELVING UNIT AT LOBBY SODA STATION CABINET,DRIVE THRU SODA STATION & DRIP TRAY.
Why This Matters
Accumulated soil attracts pests and harbors bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be kept clean.
Specific Requirements
Clean equipment interiors and exteriors; Walls, ceilings, floors clean; Remove grease and debris; Clean as often as necessary.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11, 4-602.13
Violation #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED FAUCET AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK IN POOR REPAIR MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Backflow can contaminate entire water supply with sewage or chemicals.
Food Code Requirement
Plumbing must be properly installed with backflow prevention.
Specific Requirements
Air gaps at fixtures; Backflow preventers on connections; No cross-connections; Annual testing of devices; Proper drainage.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.13
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: MUST GROUT FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREMISES WHERE NEEDED.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: MUST ELEVATE,REMOVE AND ORGANIZE ARTICLES OFF OF FLOOR IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA AND NEAR DISH WASHING AREA.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #56
MINOR
Violation Details
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHTS AND PROVIDE SHATTER PROOF BULBS AT HEAT LAMPS.
Why This Matters
Poor ventilation causes condensation and grease buildup; inadequate lighting hides contamination.
Food Code Requirement
Proper ventilation and lighting required throughout.
Specific Requirements
Ventilation prevents condensation; Adequate lighting for operations; Fixtures shielded; Hoods over cooking equipment.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11, 6-304.11
Violation #57
MINOR
Violation Details
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING - Comments: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Smoking contaminates hands and food with nicotine and tar residues.
Food Code Requirement
Smoking prohibited in food establishments.
Specific Requirements
No smoking in any part of establishment; Designated areas away from food; Proper signage posted.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-401.11
Violation #60
CORRECTED
MAJOR
Violation Details
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2581664 9/13/23 #49- : 4-601.11(C): (C) NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, FOOD residue, and other debris. OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FRYERS, FRYER CABINETS, WHEELS AND BASES OF FRYERS, PREP TABLES, PREP COOLERS, SHELVING UNITS, HOLDING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#53- 6-501.18 : INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FIXTURES AND FLOORS IN THE WASHROOMS.#55-6-501.12 : FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEAN THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Deviating from approved procedures removes critical safety controls.
Food Code Requirement
Must comply with all approved plans and procedures.
Specific Requirements
Follow approved plans; Maintain required records; Operate as permitted; No unauthorized changes.
Status
This violation was corrected during the inspection.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-304.11
Violation #60
CORRECTED
MAJOR
Violation Details
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2581664 9/13/23 #49- : 4-601.11(C): (C) NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, FOOD residue, and other debris. OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FRYERS, FRYER CABINETS, WHEELS AND BASES OF FRYERS, PREP TABLES, PREP COOLERS, SHELVING UNITS, HOLDING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#53- 6-501.18 : INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FIXTURES AND FLOORS IN THE WASHROOMS.#55-6-501.12 : FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEAN THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Deviating from approved procedures removes critical safety controls.
Food Code Requirement
Must comply with all approved plans and procedures.
Specific Requirements
Follow approved plans; Maintain required records; Operate as permitted; No unauthorized changes.
Status
This violation was corrected during the inspection.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-304.11
Health Department Information
Department
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Division
Food Protection Program
Report Issues
Call 311 or File Online
More Information
CDPH Food Protection