Cook Mama Restaurant Addresses Food Safety Concerns Ahead of Reinspection

Strategic Insights -

A Norwich restaurant, Cook Mama, received a poor food hygiene rating due to various concerns, including the lack of a food safety management system, dirty surfaces, and inadequate freezer maintenance. However, the restaurant has taken immediate action, addressing all areas of improvement as required by the inspector. A reinspection has been booked, and the business has sent proof of the amendments to the Food Standards Agency.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cook Mama, a Norwich restaurant, received a one-star food hygiene rating after an inspection by Norwich City Council on May 28, citing major improvement needed in management of food safety.
  • The inspector found that food was not covered in freezers, dirt was on food probe thermometers, and fridge and freezer seals were dirty, with some showing signs of mould growth.
  • The restaurant was also lacking a food safety management system, making it difficult to complete daily records of checks.
  • However, the restaurant has taken immediate action, addressing all areas of improvement as required by the inspector, including cleaning dirty surfaces, fixing faulty freezers, and implementing a food safety management system.
  • A reinspection has been booked, and the business has sent proof of the amendments to the Food Standards Agency.
  • Owner Arnold Mbulawa, a South African national, has worked at various restaurants in Norwich, including Rooftop Gardens and Wagamama.
  • The restaurant has a diverse menu featuring various African dishes and has maintained customer satisfaction despite the recent rating.

Statistics:

  • 1-star food hygiene rating received by Cook Mama after an inspection on May 28.
  • 100% of areas of improvement addressed by the restaurant following the inspection.
  • 5 days taken by Cook Mama to address all areas of improvement and request a reinspection.
  • 10+ African dishes offered by Cook Mama on their menu.
  • 1 reinspection booked by Cook Mama to "sort all areas which require improvement."

Sources:

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