MERENGUE RESTAURANT
FAILFriday, September 18, 2020 at 4:30 PM
Violations Cited
590.003/3-501.16-P
(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Cut vegetables stored on counter at 55F- Prepared less than 2 hours prior Removed and placed in walkin
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.
590.003/3-501.17-PF
Ready-To-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Date Marking (Pf)
Numerous containers of prepared foods in refrigeration throughout with no labels or production/ discard dates
Why This Matters
This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper temperature control procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.004/4-501.114-PF
Manual and Mechanical Warewashing Equipment Chemical Sanitization-Temperature pH Concentration and Hardness (Pf)
Sanitizer dispenser broken and water tested at 0ppm quats- Manually prepare sanitizer solution until repair is made
Why This Matters
INEFFECTIVE SANITIZATION: Below 50ppm chlorine or 200ppm quat, bacteria survive on 'clean' dishes. Above 200ppm chlorine leaves toxic residue causing chemical burns, nausea. 70% of restaurant outbreaks linked to improper sanitization.
Code Requirements
Maintain sanitizer at: Chlorine 50-100ppm, Quaternary Ammonium 200-400ppm, Iodine 12.5-25ppm. Test every 2 hours with test strips. Change solution when cloudy/dirty. Train all staff on mixing procedures.
590.003/3-302.12-C
Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food (C)
Squeeze bottles with no labels
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.
590.004/4-601.11-C
(B) and (C) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (C)
Interior panel of ice machine with black mold like buildup
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 equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.006/6-201.17-C
Walls and Ceilings Attachments (C)
Heavy dust buildup on ceiling at vents
Why This Matters
Poor facility maintenance can harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning
Code Requirements
Smooth, washable surfaces; No holes or damage; Light-colored in food areas; Clean condition