BREAKING: Santa Fe food service inspections from October 13-17, 2023, reveal alarming violations at several establishments, raising serious concerns about public health and safety. The New Mexico Environment Department has confirmed that multiple eateries are facing immediate scrutiny after being cited for critical food safety violations.
Among the most concerning results, Santa Fe Bite, located at 1616 St. Michael’s Drive, was cited for multiple violations including employees not wearing gloves, improper food handling, and a slew of sanitary issues such as a dirty dishwasher and mold presence. The establishment’s inspection on October 14 uncovered issues that could pose serious risks to diners, prompting an urgent response from health officials.
Similarly, Yamas Greek Rotisserie at 2411 Cerrillos Road received citations for improper food storage practices, including a personal drink found among ready-to-eat foods and missing thermometers in coolers during their inspection on October 14. This underscores the critical need for adherence to food safety protocols.
In a particularly troubling report, Santa Fe Preparatory School was found to have open back doors and signs of pest infestations during its inspection on October 16. The facility was cited for a cluttered environment and numerous hygiene violations, including dirty surfaces and equipment, raising alarms for parents and the community.
Jaripeo Grill And Beer, inspected on October 17, faced severe citations for a lack of soap and paper towels at hand-wash stations, improper thawing methods, and employees cooking without gloves. The establishment is required to undergo reinspection due to its numerous breaches of health regulations.
Meanwhile, popular locations such as Crave (SITE Santa Fe), Tortilla Flats, and Maverick BonFire Grill reported no violations during their inspections, highlighting a stark contrast in food safety practices within the area.
The New Mexico Environment Department emphasizes the importance of immediate corrective actions and plans to address these violations. Establishments are required to respond within three business days, and repeated failures could lead to further penalties.
As these inspections unfold, the Santa Fe community is urged to stay informed about the safety of their dining choices. Parents, in particular, should pay close attention to food safety standards at schools where children dine.
Residents are encouraged to demand transparency from local eateries and advocate for stricter adherence to health regulations. The potential risks associated with lax food safety practices cannot be overstated, and public vigilance is crucial.
Stay tuned for updates as health officials continue to monitor these establishments and enforce compliance with food safety standards. Your health and safety depend on it.
