Tora Japanese Restaurant
FAILWednesday, December 4, 2024 at 7:27 PM
Violations Cited
590.003/3-501.16-P1
(A)(1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Rice in rice cooker at 125F in back of house. Discarded. Hold hot foods at 135F or above.
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.
590.005/5-202.13-P
Backflow Prevention Air Gap (P)
Food prep sink observed with no air gap. Provide to prevent potential contaminants. Hire a licensed plumber to do the work and ensure they pull a permit fo the plumbing work.
Why This Matters
This violation directly contributes to foodborne illness risk
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.
590.006/6-301.12-PF
Hand Drying Provision (Pf)
Paper towel dispenser at sushi line observed empty. Corrected on site.
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.
590.003/3-501.13-C
Thawing (C)
Frozen shrimp observed thawing in ambient air. Discontinue. Shrimp moved to refrigeration to thaw.
Why This Matters
SURFACE CONTAMINATION: Room temperature thawing allows surface to reach 70°F+ while interior frozen. Bacteria multiply 7-fold every hour. Creates perfect conditions for Salmonella, Campylobacter growth. Major factor in poultry-related illnesses.
Code Requirements
Approved thawing methods ONLY: Under refrigeration (best), Under cold running water (70°F) in sink, In microwave if cooking immediately, As part of cooking process. NEVER at room temperature. Plan ahead for slow thawing.
590.004/4-101.19-C
Nonfood-Contact Surfaces (C)
Cardboard being used in sushi line refrigerator. Surfaces must be easily cleanable. Remove.
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.
590.004/4-301.14-C
Ventilation Hood Systems Adequacy (C)
Apparent residential hood being used in kitchen area. Referred to BFD.
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.