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El Centro

PASS

Friday, July 25, 2025 at 5:12 PM

Address
474 SHAWMUT AV
South End, MA 02118
Category
FT
Violations
4 total
⚠️ 1 critical
⚠ 2 major
Facility History
72 inspections
33 failures

Violations Cited

⚠️ CRITICAL 590.003/3-501.16-P
✓ Corrected

(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)

Observed raw beef stored inside refrigerated drawers between 45F-48F. Discussed with PIC to maintain cold holding @ 41F or below. COS

Why This Matters

RAPID BACTERIAL GROWTH: At 50°F, E. coli doubles every 30 minutes. At 70°F, it doubles every 20 minutes. After 4 hours above 41°F, bacteria can reach dangerous levels causing severe illness. Common result: 24-72 hours of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, potential hospitalization.

Code Requirements

Immediately discard foods held above 41°F for over 4 hours. Rapidly cool foods above 41°F if less than 2 hours. Check ALL cooler temps every 2 hours with calibrated thermometer. Repair/adjust refrigeration immediately. Never store food in non-refrigerated areas.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
⚠ MAJOR 590.004/4-601.11-PF
✓ Corrected

(A) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (Pf)

Observed meat pans soiled with blood spills inside refrigerated drawers in main kitchen. Clean to remove all spills

Why This Matters

Improper equipment maintenance can harbor bacteria and contaminate food

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.004 | FDA Code: Section 4
⚠ MAJOR 590.006/6-301.12-PF
✓ Corrected

Hand Drying Provision (Pf)

Observed no paper towels at handsink inside main kitchen. Discussed with PIC to monitor and ensure all handsinks are fully stocked with paper towels. COS

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper personal hygiene procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.006/6-501.16-C
✓ Corrected

Drying Mops (C)

Observed wet mops stored on floor in basement prep area. Remove and ensure mops are properly stored upright for air drying

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
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Data sourced directly from Boston Inspectional Services Department