The US is said to be one of the best countries to enjoy fast food. From hamburgers to hot dogs and buffalo wings to fried chicken, there are many items you can have when craving delicious food. In fact, IBISWorld states that there were 207,827 fast-food restaurants in the US in 2023. This is a 1.5% increase compared to 2022. But are all these restaurants safe for dining and consuming food?
When choosing a dining destination, the taste of the food should not be your only consideration. You should also focus on other aspects, such as health and safety. A restaurant’s ambiance and menu could be the most attractive things to you, but it’s essential to ensure the establishment meets certain safety standards.
Below, we explore the critical factors that help you identify a safe dining destination.
Assessing Cleanliness Standards
When you enter a restaurant, observe the overall hygiene. Are the floors and tables clean? Does the staff adhere to proper hygiene practices, such as wearing gloves when handling food or washing their hands frequently? These visual indicators can give important information about how important cleanliness is to the company. Take a moment to observe the state of shared spaces like restrooms, as their upkeep often reflects the restaurant’s general standards.
Assessing cleanliness is important because it is directly associated with your health. Consuming food prepared without hygiene can result in foodborne diseases. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 48 million Americans get sick of foodborne diseases annually. Moreover, some 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die of the same problem.
Considering Emergency Response Planning
Another important aspect of restaurant safety is the establishment’s preparedness for emergencies. Restaurants that are well-prepared have well-defined procedures for dealing with emergencies, including fires, medical crises, and natural catastrophes.
Consider the simple example of fire, which is a possibility in a restaurant because of cooking gas and other hazards. The National Restaurant Association states that the US fire departments report over 9,000 structural infernos in eating and drinking establishments annually. Between 2017 and 2021, these fires caused more than 100 civilian injuries and $175 million in property damages.
Ensure the emergency exits are clear by looking for obvious indicators of them. Staff should also be trained in first aid and know how to respond calmly and efficiently during a crisis. Moreover, the tools and products used for managing these emergencies should also be safe. For instance, many firefighting teams use aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) to fight liquid fires.
The Problem With AFFF
While extremely effective, AFFF can be hazardous to humans, wildlife, and the environment. These firefighting products contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Some of these PFAS, like PFOA and PFOS, are known carcinogens. According to TorHoerman Law, constant exposure to AFFF can cause various types of cancers, such as:
- Bladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Breast cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer, etc.
Moreover, PFAS are forever chemicals and do not break down easily. Thus, they can accumulate in the environment and cause hazards to wildlife as well. Firefighters who use AFFF to fight infernos are the most exposed people. Many firefighters who developed cancer due to AFFF exposure have filed lawsuits against manufacturers for not warning them appropriately.
The plaintiffs seek rightful compensation for the problems they have faced because of the exposure. Experts say that settlements of top-tier cases can range from $200,000 to $500,000. On the other hand, mid and low-tier cases can range from $150,000 to $300,000 and $20,000 to $75,000, respectively. However, the actual AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts can vary based on various factors like the severity of the disease, medical expenses, etc.
If such products are used for fighting liquid fires at restaurants, they can prove hazardous for diners. Besides the smoke from the fire, diners can be exposed to the harmful PFAS in AFFF. Exposure to PFAS substances can offset the conditions mentioned above. Thus, it is important that you also consider the tools and products used during emergency response when selecting a restaurant for dining.
Observing Staff Behavior
The professionalism and behavior of the staff can reveal a lot about a restaurant’s commitment to safety. Polite, attentive servers who are knowledgeable about the menu and willing to answer questions often reflect a well-managed establishment. Furthermore, staff who prioritize customer concerns, especially regarding allergies or dietary restrictions, demonstrate a proactive approach to safety.
There are many other reasons restaurant staff should be educated. For example, education about the dishes shows authenticity. When you ask a waiter about recommendations for dishes or a side drink for your main course, they should be able to respond confidently. This shows that they are well aware of what the restaurant is serving you. It also ensures better service and improves trust.
Verifying Licenses and Certifications
Local authorities have established some health and safety requirements that restaurants must adhere to. Health inspection certifications, often displayed near the entrance or at the counter, signify compliance with these regulations. If you don’t see such documentation, don’t hesitate to ask. Transparency is a hallmark of a trustworthy establishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if the water at a restaurant is safe to drink?
Water’s look and flavor can be used to determine its safety. It is a positive indicator when the water is clear and free of odd tastes or smells. Safe water practices are also demonstrated by the presence of visible water filtration devices and the provision of packaged bottled water.
Are dining locations outside more secure than those inside?
Certain hazards, such as inadequate ventilation or congestion, that might aid in the transmission of airborne diseases can be mitigated by dining outside. However, safety issues can still arise from things like bug exposure or inadequate cleaning. Examine the staff’s personal hygiene habits as well as the outside arrangements.
If not cleaned often, shared things like physical menus and condiment bottles can store germs. To reduce this danger, a lot of eateries now provide computerized menus or single-use condiments. Choose businesses that follow these procedures or regularly sterilize shared things.
It doesn’t have to be difficult to choose a safe place to eat. You may lower hazards and improve your entire experience by concentrating on important safety indicators, including cleanliness, food handling, staff professionalism, and emergency readiness.
Keep in mind that the finest eating experiences are found at establishments that prioritize your well-being in addition to delicious cuisine. Have faith in your instincts, do your homework, and give preference to businesses that have a strong commitment to safety. You may eat with assurance and tranquility if you do this.