UNION OYSTER HOUSE
FAILFriday, August 9, 2019 at 4:02 PM
Violations Cited
590.003/3-501.16-P
(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
The dairy cooler is not working properly; milk 47F. Provide proper cold holding of 41F or below (The owners were able to take corrective action and discarded items that were in the refrigerator overnight and moved items that were delivered earlier in the morning) The cole slaw and the lobster salad made earlier in the day are elevated in the service refrigerators; temperature 46F-52F. Provide proper cold holding during preparation and service.
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.
590.003/3-304.15-C
(B)-(D) Gloves Use Limitations (C)
The shucking gloves need to be washable or covered with disposable glove.
Why This Matters
FALSE SECURITY: Contaminated gloves spread bacteria MORE than bare hands because workers feel 'protected'. Gloves pick up 5x more bacteria than skin. Not changing between tasks spreads contamination to everything touched.
Code Requirements
Change gloves: After touching raw meat/poultry/fish, Between different food types, After touching face/hair/clothing, Every hour maximum, When switching tasks, After touching any non-food surface. Wash hands BEFORE putting on new gloves.
590.003/3-501.13-C
Thawing (C)
The frozen fish is thawing in cryovac bags. Thaw properly.
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.
590.004/4-602.13-C
Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C)
There is grease on the wall behind the salad refrigerator. Clean to 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.