Most Lafayette County Food Establishments Earn High Safety Grades

The county's monthly food service inspection results, released January 7, showed that 27 of 31 inspections in Lafayette County received A grades, reflecting no critical violations at those locations. The strong showing included locally prominent restaurants, catering services, and the county hospital dining operation, all of which were listed as passing with A grades.

Three facilities received B grades: Jinsei Sushi bar and lounge, Los Parrilleros, and Mis Raices Sabor Latino. A B grade indicates that critical violations were identified during inspection but were corrected under the direct supervision of health inspectors, allowing the establishments to remain in operation. One facility, Ballpark Express, received the single C grade for the month. A C grade means critical violations remained at the time of inspection and must be corrected within 10 days before the site is re-inspected.

For Lafayette County residents, the results mean that the vast majority of inspected food service operations met the health standards intended to prevent foodborne illness. B-graded facilities addressed problems on the spot under inspection, which reduces ongoing risk but signals the need for continued attention to safe food handling practices. Ballpark Express must resolve outstanding critical issues within the prescribed timeframe; failure to do so could lead to further regulatory action.

The inspection grades provide a snapshot of compliance with rules designed to protect public health. An A indicates no critical violations were found, a B indicates critical violations that were corrected under supervision, and a C indicates critical violations remained and must be corrected within 10 days before re-inspection. These tiers aim to prioritize immediate risks while giving operators clear steps to return to full compliance.

Local business owners and patrons alike have a shared interest in maintaining high standards. For operators, consistent training, safe temperature control, clean facilities, and strict hand hygiene remain foundational. For patrons, paying attention to posted inspection results and asking questions about food safety practices can help reinforce community expectations.

The Mississippi Department of Health maintains inspection records and re-inspection schedules for establishments that require follow-up. Residents with concerns about a particular restaurant or food service operation may contact the department for details or watch for re-inspection outcomes, which will confirm whether required corrections have been made.