MERENGUE RESTAURANT
FAILThursday, January 28, 2021 at 3:40 PM
Violations Cited
590.002/2-301.14-P
When to Wash (P)
Observed multiple dry sinks in areas where food prep was in progress. Review proper handwashing with all staff
Why This Matters
ILLNESS TRANSMISSION: 70% of foodborne outbreaks traced to poor handwashing. Unwashed hands after restroom carry 10 billion bacteria including E. coli. One contaminated hand can spread bacteria to 7 surfaces in 10 seconds. Causes 48 million illnesses annually.
Code Requirements
Wash hands for 20 seconds minimum with soap and 100°F water: After restroom ALWAYS, Before food prep, After touching face/hair/clothing, Between raw and ready-to-eat foods, After handling garbage, Every 30 minutes during continuous prep, After any contamination risk.
590.003/3-501.16-P
(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Cut vegetables stored over ice at 50F. Product must be held at 41F or below. Removed and placed in freezer to cool
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.
590.007/7-208.11-P
Storage-First Aid Supplies (P)
Burn creams and first aid items stored on shelving above foods in kitchen- REmoved
Why This Matters
This violation directly contributes to foodborne illness risk
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.007. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.004/4-601.11-PF
(A) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (Pf)
Black mold like buildup on internal panel of ice machine in lower level- Clean with proper frequency
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.
590.004/4-501.12-C
Cutting Surfaces (C)
Heavily scored cutting boards in kitchen- Replace
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.
590.004/4-601.11-C
(B) and (C) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (C)
Observed employee washing pots and placing them on shelf to air dry. Ensure all equipment is washed/ rinsed and sanitizer before drying
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.
590.005/5-205.15-C
System Maintained in Good Repair (C)
Grease trap in lower level extremely odorous- Clean
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.
590.006/6-303.11-C
Intensity-Lighting (C)
LIghting at cookline not properly working- Repair
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.
L1
Post a copy of the current Health Permit in the establishment in an area conspicuous to the consumer
Why This Matters
Violations can contribute to foodborne illness if not corrected
Code Requirements
Must comply with all applicable food code requirements