When we leave our beloved kitchens and dine out, unfortunately, we take a risk of food poisoning. After spending our hard earned money at a restaurant, the very last thing we want to encounter is a food illness and bad service. Sadly it does happen and it happens too often. There are several signs commonly encountered at restaurants that are warnings your food safety is at risk. If you experience any of these warnings I suggest that you stop eating, grab the check, and leave as soon as possible!
1.) Crumbs
When arriving at a restaurant, if you notice crumbs on tables or floors this is a red flag. The first impression at any restaurant is important. If the restaurant doesn’t care about the cleanliness and appearance of its tables, they will not care about your food quality either.
2.) Food Temperature
When food is left sitting it gives bacteria breeding grounds. Don’t overlook the temperature of your meal if it comes out cooler than desired. Send it back immediately and get a hot meal.
3.) Your Server is Sick
Anybody handling food for others should not be sick, period. Any illness can easily be spread through food. Your fingers, nose, and throat are all exposed while dining and at risk of bacteria if your server is sick. If you notice frequent sneezes, runny nose, or a pale face from your server, stop eating. Politely ask for a new server and meal.
4.) Dirty Bathrooms
Again, restaurants should hold cleanliness as a priority. If this establishment doesn’t care about the smell or sanitation of their bathroom it’s another red flag. The staff is probably not classified as hygienic people and you do not want them handling your food.
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5.) Pests
Depending on the atmosphere and location of the restaurant, flies could be inevitable. If you are dining outside around trees there could be a fly landing on your plate. However, if you notice multiple flies and you’re dining inside this could be a big problem. Look out for pest droppings as well. Rats and mice are highly drawn to restaurants and a sanitary restaurant will have their pests under control. You should not see any indications of their presence. Pests carry many diseases. You do not want this around your food.
6.) Food Allergy
Food allergies are very serious. No one should receive a problem when requesting changes to an entree due to allergies. Servers should be trained on food allergies and ask about them initially. If the server seems uneducated about your allergy, don’t trust your meal. Ask for a manager to clarify your meal will be prepared correctly, or leave.
Don’t overlook these signs when dining out. Hold restaurants up to the food-safety and sanitation standards they should have. Don’t take the risk of becoming ill or wasting money. Stay alert and have an enjoyable meal.
