Florida’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants routinely inspects restaurants, food trucks and other food service establishments for public health and cleanliness issues.
During recent inspections, a Jamaican restaurant and grill in Bradenton was temporarily shut down after inspectors found signs of rodent activity:
• High priority: An inspector observed approximately 20 rodent droppings in a back storage area near a dish area and approximately six rodent droppings in a cabinet in a bar area.
• High priority: Wiping cloth sanitizing solution exceeded the maximum concentration allowed. Corrective action was taken.
• High priority: Raw burgers were stored over ready-to-eat sliced peppers and onions in a reach-in cooler. Corrective action was taken.
• Intermediate: The establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment.
• Intermediate: A handwash sink was being used to thaw food. Corrective action was taken.
• Basic: An inspector noted 11 basic violations, including improper thawing of meat and soiled vents and hoods in the kitchen.
• The restaurant met inspection standards during a follow-up visit on Jan. 9 and was allowed to reopen.
Editor’s Note: According to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, these reports are a “snapshot” of the conditions present at the time of the inspection and are public record. The agency is required to inspect every licensed restaurant at least once per year, but new and “high-risk” establishments tend to be inspected more frequently.
When an emergency shutdown order is given by an inspector, it must first be reviewed and approved by agency supervisors. In order for a business to reopen, an inspector will continue visiting the establishment daily until compliance is met. Some citations may include a financial penalty. Inspectors may also respond to complaints, which can be filed at www.myfloridalicense.com.…Read more by Ryan Ballogg