What is Dirty Dining?
Las Vegas is known for its glitz and glamor, but it’s also home to a darker side: Dirty Dining. Unfortunately, this isn’t a rare occurrence. In fact, it’s shockingly common for restaurants in Sin City to have major hygiene violations. So, what’s causing all of these dirty dining scandals? And what can be done to prevent them?
Dirty Dining is the term used to label restaurants that didn’t meet the food safety standards of state Health Inspection. When failing their random health inspection, typically done annually, restaurants are ordered to shut down temporarily, allowing time to fix the problems. Dirty Dining is also a terminology used to describe food-borne illnesses spread in restaurants. These illnesses can be caused by pests, such as rats and cockroaches, or poor hygiene practices by kitchen staff. Dirty Dining is a problem in Las Vegas, where Sin City’s nickname is well-deserved. Restaurants in the area are notorious for their unsanitary conditions, leading to food poisoning and other serious illnesses.
How often does it occur in Las Vegas?
Dirty Dining is a common occurrence in Las Vegas. In fact, according to the Southern Nevada Health District, almost half of all restaurants in Las Vegas have been cited for a food safety violation in the past three years. The most common violations include improper food temperatures, cross-contamination from pests and humans, and poor hygiene practices. Pest Pros has been serving the restaurant industry for over 20 years and understands the importance of implementing food-safe pest control methods.
Who is to blame?
When it comes to Dirty Dining, everyone blames the establishment. At the same time, the establishment often says the inspectors themselves are bitter or overly ambitious. Restaurant staff may not always be diligent in their food handling and cleaning practices, and health inspectors can also be tough to please. And as for diners, well, we all know how easy it is to let things slide when hunger strikes. Besides, most of us enter a Diner already believing our favorite spot is pristine, clean, and delicious. For that reason, we are partially blinded to the infractions behind the scene. In fact, we don’t even make an effort to inform the establishment that their hot water is not functioning. The lack of customer interaction in this department can indirectly cause our favorite eatery to be cited for one violation or another. Dirty Dining is not a phenomenon unique to Las Vegas. It’s happening all over the country, and it’s something we all need to be aware of. One way to help out is by keeping the establishment informed when we see something is amiss.
How can you avoid Dirty Diners?
The unfortunate truth is that Dirty Dining is a common occurrence in Las Vegas. Restaurants and bars are constantly under pressure to meet deadlines and satisfy customers. This often leads to violations of the health code. Thankfully, a few things you can do to avoid eating at a place cited for dirty dining. The most important is to always check the health inspection grade before making reservations. You can find this information on the Nevada Health Department website.
What are the consequences?
Dirty dining can have consequences for restaurant owners, as well as diners. One result is extensive financial losses, being shut down or laid out with a lawsuit. For diners, it can also lead to the spread of harmful diseases. In some cases, it can even put lives at risk. As a diner, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with dirty dining and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. If ever in doubt, speak to the restaurant staff about their food safety procedures. And if you happen to see any signs of pests or unsanitary conditions, report it immediately.
One solution is Pest Control.
Dirty Dining is a shocking but common occurrence in Las Vegas, and restaurant owners bear the brunt of the blame. But diners can take some responsibility in the matter too! By speaking up, we raise awareness and allow the restaurant to clean up its act. That’s quite honorable, to be honest. Now we understand the causes and consequences of Dirty Dining, let’s be more proactive and take steps to avoid it. Together we can protect the health and safety of the public.
At Pest Pros, we are licensed and insured to exterminate and prevent pest infestations for restaurants and commercial properties. Better still, we implement food-safe pest control methods specifically designed for bars, cafes, and all types of eateries. Pest Pros offers affordable Commercial Pest Control services that help keep restaurants in compliance with the health code and free from hazards posed by pests. Contact us for a free consultation and a quote.