Health officials in Atlanta, Georgia took swift action against Subway after rodent droppings scattered across multiple food preparation surfaces.
Health inspectors conducting a routine visit at a Subway franchise in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta discovered extensive evidence of rodent activity throughout the kitchen. Droppings were found on the sandwich preparation line, in the bread storage area, and along the walls of the walk-in refrigerator. The owner was ordered to cease operations immediately.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the location had received a warning citation for pest activity just 60 days prior. Health officials found that dead rodents were discovered in glue traps that had not been checked or replaced, and further inspection revealed the facility lacked a current contract with a licensed pest control company.
According to public records, this was not the first time this location had received citations. Prior inspection records showed previous violations had been documented, raising questions about whether corrective actions had been implemented and sustained over time.
Food safety experts recommend that diners check public health inspection records before visiting a restaurant. Most states publish inspection reports online within 48 hours of the visit. Scores below 80 — or the presence of any critical violation — warrant extra caution.
Before your next dinner out, check the health inspection score at InspectorEats.com. Knowledge is your best defense against foodborne illness.
Ultimately, The franchise owner hired a pest management firm and underwent three consecutive passing inspections before being allowed to reopen. The episode prompted renewed scrutiny of food safety practices across the industry.