GREENSBORO, N.C. - It's a frustration we've all faced. You're spending your hard earned money getting food on a night out. Only to realize what you ordered is kinda funky. It doesn't taste just right. What are you supposed to do?
According to the Guilford County Department Of Environmental Health the first step is knowing what is "bad food." We're talking any food that has an unexpected smell, texture or taste.
"If you order something that's supposed to be sweet as described on the menu. But it's very bitter to you, that might be an indication that something's happened chemically in the food that it's probably something you won't want to eat," said Paula Cox, Environmental Health Director.
If you find a problem, politely ask for the manager.
"If it is something you're unhappy with: the sooner you talk about it, the better it is. And then you'll probably be able to get something to replace it and continue your meal and enjoy your meal out," Cox said.
If that doesn't work, you probably should pay the bill anyway. Greensboro police say they won't arrest you for not paying if you discussed your problems with the manager. But it could end up in civil court – which will cost a lot more than the bill itself.
Then report your issues to the Health Department.
"We're going to want to make sure if you do have an experience where it doesn't taste right to you that we go out and just make sure they are following all the proper procedures. That they are keeping their cold food cold and hot food hot and they are following al the general food safety tips and requirements," Cox said.
And if you think you had food poisoning, go the doctor ASAP.
"You'll need to confirm that it is a food poisoning. And that's confirmed through a diagnostic test that can only be done at a doctor's office," Cox said.
If you're still bitter about having to pay that bill, you can also try complaining in writing. Maybe a different manager or owner will see your letter and offer another solution. To do that, you'll first describe the purchase - what your ordered and when. Next state the problem with it Then ask for specific action to resolve the problem. Say: "I would appreciate my money back or a coupon for my next visit." And --here's a biggie -- give them a time to act. "I look forward to your reply. I will wait until March 10th before I seek help from someone else."
