Lower Mills Tavern
FAILMonday, September 11, 2023 at 4:01 PM
Violations Cited
590.003/3-501.14-P
Cooling (P)
Cooked short rib in the under the stove top cooler with an elevated temperature of 49F. PIC stated that it had been out for a period of time prior to be placed into the cooler. Discontinue and ensure all TCS foods are being brought down to temperature prior to being placed out for service.
Why This Matters
TOXIN FORMATION: Clostridium perfringens spores survive cooking and germinate during slow cooling. Produce toxin that causes violent illness. Responsible for 1 million illnesses annually. Large batches can take 24+ hours to cool unsafely.
Code Requirements
Cool rapidly using: Shallow pans (2 inches max), Ice baths with stirring, Blast chiller, Cut large items into portions, Add ice as ingredient. NEVER cool at room temp. NEVER stack hot containers. Monitor with thermometer. Document cooling times.
590.003/3-501.16-P1
(A)(1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Cooked soup inside of the steam table in the main kitchen are at 118F. Address and ensure all TCS foods are being maintained at 135F and above. Soup to be reheated to 165F to ensure no bacterial growth.
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.
590.006/6-501.111-PF
Controlling Pests (Pf)
Evedence of fruit fly activity noted in the basement dish/preparation area. Address and provide an up to date pest control report for the re-inspection.
Why This Matters
SEVERE CONTAMINATION: Rodent droppings carry 35+ diseases including Hantavirus (36% mortality rate), Salmonella (20% of cases from rodents), Leptospirosis (kidney/liver failure). Mice contaminate 10 times more food than they eat through urine and droppings.
Code Requirements
IMMEDIATE ACTION: Clean/sanitize all affected areas with 10% bleach solution. Discard ALL exposed food. Seal holes over 1/4 inch (mice) or 1/2 inch (rats). Remove food sources. Install bait stations. Professional extermination within 24 hours.
590.003/3-302.12-C
Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food (C)
Several squeeze bottles filled with sauces and dressings with no labels. Provide.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-304.12-C
In-Use Utensils Between-Use Storage (C)
Knife observed being stored in between cooler and preparation area. Discontinue and ensure all knives are being stored in a clean and protected manner.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.004/4-602.13-C
Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C)
At the time of the re-inspection the floor of the small basement storage room with debris and equipment not allowing for proper pest management. Address and ensure room is accessible for pest control
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.005/5-501.113-C
Covering Receptacles (C)
Trash receptacles with no lids. Provide in order to help minimize any insect/fruit fly activity.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.005. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.