While the NHL Chicago Blackhawks were losing to the Phoenix Coyotes on the ice at United Center earlier this season, food safety inspectors from the Chicago Department of Public Health were issuing failing grades to various foodservice vendors in the stadium’s concourses.
The Tuna burgers were too cold and the cole slaw was too warm at one stand while several others also were cited for critical health violations for improper temperature controls, according to a copy of the Food Establishment Inspection Report from the November 29, 2011, game. United Center also is home to the Chicago Bulls and many major concerts and other entertainment attractions throughout the year.
The CBS Television news affiliate in the Windy City recently brought the inspection to light, noting that 47 pounds of potentially hazardous food was thrown out by inspectors who found critical violations at eight establishments.
Dr. Bechara Choucair, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, told the station that the temperature violations are serious because they are the gateway to food-borne illness. He said a program of unannounced food safety inspections started last year on game days at United Center, Wrigley Field, U.S. Cellular Field and Soldier Field will continue in 2012.
