Provide control of pests by routinely: • Inspecting incoming food shipments • Inspecting the premises for evidence of pests • Eliminating conditions that attract pests
Inspector’s notes
Observed two live mice in the facility at time of inspection. Ensure pests are controlled.
In plain English
The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.
(a) Summary closure conditions. The manager of environmental health may summarily close any licensed food establishment for the following reasons: (1) Any one of the following conditions exist on, or result from, the operation of the licensed premises: a. Evidence of a sewage backup in a food establishment to such an extent that the floor in food preparation, storage or warewashing areas has been flooded. b. No potable hot or cold water under pressure to a food establishment to such an extent that handwashing, warewashing, food preparation, or toilet facilities are not operational. c. A lack of electricity or gas service to a food establishment to such an extent that handwashing, warewashing, food preparation, or toilet facilities are not operational. d. Evidence of an ongoing food-borne illness caused by the operation of the establishment. e. More than one violation within thirty (30) days of holding potentially hazardous foods between fifty (50) degrees Fahrenheit and one hundred thirty (130) degrees Fahrenheit. f. Lack of an accessible, previously approved handwashing facility in the food preparation area, or three (3) violations within thirty (30) days for improper maintenance of approved handwashing facilities, such as lack of soap or single-service hand towels. g. Lack of an approved and presently operable dishwashing system on-premises, where food preparation utensils and/or reusable eating utensils are used as part of the business. h. The presence of gnawed or rodent contaminated (urine stained) food product. i. An infestation of rodents to such an extent that one (1) live mouse or rat is observed within the premises of the food establishment or there is the accumulation of fresh mouse droppings in more than one (1) location in either the food preparation or storage areas, or the presence of fresh rat droppings in one (1) location in the food storage or preparation areas. j. An infestation of cockroaches in the premises to such an extent that six (6) or more
Inspector’s notes
Observed two live mice in kitchen area. Ensure facility is cleaned, contaminated food, food packages, and single-use items are discarded, outer openings are protected, harborage conditions are eliminated, and a certified pest control personnel is working with the facility to prevent ongoing pest issues. Facility is ordered to close and cannot reopen until a reinspection is completed. Reinspection must be requested in writing. Emergency closure ordered at time of inspection. Separate emergency closure report with additional information sent.
In plain English
The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.
Observed ceiling tiles damaged or missing. Observed floors missing tiles and in disrepair. Ensure physical facilities are kept in good repair so they are smooth, and easily cleanable
In plain English
Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Post a sign at all handwashing sinks used by employees to remind them to wash their hands.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no hand washing signs at both hand sinks in meat cutting areas. Ensure signs are posted at all hand washing sinks reminding employees to wash their hands.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Use approved trapping devices or other means of pest control when pests are found.
Inspector’s notes
Observed open bait on shelving. Observed large amount of mouse feces throughout the facility. Ensure pests are controlled.
In plain English
The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.
Provide control of pests by routinely: • Inspecting incoming food shipments • Inspecting the premises for evidence of pests • Eliminating conditions that attract pests
Inspector’s notes
Observed excessive mouse droppings through out dry food storage, shelving, in single-use storage area, on top of food boxes, on produce, and behind equipment. Including but not limited to: dining room area, and grocery area, and meat cutting area. Ensure pests are controlled.
In plain English
The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.
(a) Summary closure conditions. The manager of environmental health may summarily close any licensed food establishment for the following reasons: (1) Any one of the following conditions exist on, or result from, the operation of the licensed premises: a. Evidence of a sewage backup in a food establishment to such an extent that the floor in food preparation, storage or warewashing areas has been flooded. b. No potable hot or cold water under pressure to a food establishment to such an extent that handwashing, warewashing, food preparation, or toilet facilities are not operational. c. A lack of electricity or gas service to a food establishment to such an extent that handwashing, warewashing, food preparation, or toilet facilities are not operational. d. Evidence of an ongoing food-borne illness caused by the operation of the establishment. e. More than one violation within thirty (30) days of holding potentially hazardous foods between fifty (50) degrees Fahrenheit and one hundred thirty (130) degrees Fahrenheit. f. Lack of an accessible, previously approved handwashing facility in the food preparation area, or three (3) violations within thirty (30) days for improper maintenance of approved handwashing facilities, such as lack of soap or single-service hand towels. g. Lack of an approved and presently operable dishwashing system on-premises, where food preparation utensils and/or reusable eating utensils are used as part of the business. h. The presence of gnawed or rodent contaminated (urine stained) food product. i. An infestation of rodents to such an extent that one (1) live mouse or rat is observed within the premises of the food establishment or there is the accumulation of fresh mouse droppings in more than one (1) location in either the food preparation or storage areas, or the presence of fresh rat droppings in one (1) location in the food storage or preparation areas. j. An infestation of cockroaches in the premises to such an extent that six (6) or more
Inspector’s notes
Observed large amount of mouse feces throughout dry storage area, on top of food packages, in produce, under equipment in kitchen area, packages of food with holes from mice. Harborage condition exist throughout facility with large openings under doors, drop-ceilings with holes, unused equipment and unnecessary storage of items, and cardboard throughout storage to line the shelves. These conditions support emergency closure of a food establishment under subpart (i) of this ordinance. Ensure facility is cleaned, contaminated food, food packages, and single-use items are discarded, outer openings are protected, harborage conditions are eliminated, and a certified pest control personnel is working with the facility to prevent ongoing pest issues. Facility is ordered to close and cannot reopen until a reinspection is completed. Reinspection can be requested in writing.
In plain English
The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.
Observed soap missing from hand washing sinks in meat cutting area. Ensure soap is provided at each hand washing sink.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Keep at each handwashing sink or group of adjacent handwashing sinks one of: • A supply of disposable towels • A continuous towel system • An approved air temperature hand drying device
Inspector’s notes
Observed no paper towels or hand drying device at the hand washing sinks in the meat cutting area. Ensure paper towels or other approved hand drying device is provided.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Observed ceiling tiles damaged or missing. Observed floors missing tiles and in disrepair. Ensure physical facilities are kept in good repair so they are smooth, and easily cleanable.
In plain English
Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.
Remove all items unnecessary to the operation of the business from the premises.
Inspector’s notes
Observed unnecessary equipment by back door and in basement. Ensure unnecessary items are removed.
In plain English
Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0285BCleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Wiping cloths used for wiping surfaces must: • Be held in an approved sanitizing solution • Laundered daily
Inspector’s notes
Observed wet cloth on cutting board in meat cutting area. Ensure wiping cloths are kept in a sanitizing solution.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.
Inspector’s notes
Observed dried food debris on walls and floors in back meat cutting area. Ensure physical facilities are maintained clean.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Post a sign at all handwashing sinks used by employees to remind them to wash their hands.
Inspector’s notes
Observed hand washing sign missing from sink in meat cutting area. Ensure one is posted.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0033APermits, training, and postings
Official wording
The business must employ at least one valid Minnesota Food Protection Manager's certification (CFPM). Find more information on the Minnesota Department of Health web page.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no one with the ability to oversee day-to-day food operations and food employees with the Minnesota Department of Health Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate. Ensure at least one person obtains the CFPM certificate and it is posted on site.
In plain English
A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.
Inspector’s notes
Observed food debris on walls and floors of back meat area. Ensure physical facilities are maintained clean.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Keep at each handwashing sink or group of adjacent handwashing sinks one of: • A supply of disposable towels • A continuous towel system • An approved air temperature hand drying device
Inspector’s notes
Observed no way to dry hands at meat market hand washing sink. Ensure paper towels are stocked.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0840CCleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean non-food contact surfaces of equipment. Keep them clean.
Inspector’s notes
Observed dried food debris on walls and floors in back meat cutting area. Ensure physical facilities are maintained clean.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Food workers must wash their hands before starting food preparation tasks.
Inspector’s notes
Observed food employee cut meat then open cooler door and go back to cutting meat without washing hands between. Ensure food workers are washing hands in situations which require them to like between tasks or when stopping food process to complete other task to prevent spreading pathogens.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
majorCode MN Rule 4626.0025Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
Designate a person in charge and ensure that the person in charge is present in the establishment during all hours of operation.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no person in charge at the establishment to answer questions or oversee food activities. Ensure at least one trained person per shift is assigned as the person in charge to oversee food activities.
In plain English
A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.
Keep a log to record employee illness symptoms. Have it available upon request.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no illness log for employees. Ensure employees are trained on what symptoms and illnesses must be reported and an illness log is kept on site. Emailed illness information with reports.
In plain English
An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.
Food businesses must have handwashing sinks with a water temperature of: • At least 100 degrees F • Not hotter than 130 degrees F • If children use the sink, the water temperature must not be hotter than 120 degrees F
Inspector’s notes
Observed no hot water at handwashing sink in meat cutting area. Ensure water of at least 100F is provided. Other sinks had hot water.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Protect food from cross-contamination by using packages or covered containers.
Inspector’s notes
Observed uncovered meats in walk-in freezer. Ensure all food is covered and protected.
In plain English
Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0033APermits, training, and postings
Official wording
The business must employ at least one valid Minnesota Food Protection Manager's certification (CFPM). Find more information on the Minnesota Department of Health web page.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no one with the ability to oversee day-to-day food operations and food employees with the Minnesota Department of Health Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate. Ensure at least one person obtains the CFPM certificate and it is posted on site.
In plain English
A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0840CCleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean non-food contact surfaces of equipment. Keep them clean.
Inspector’s notes
Observed non-food contact surfaces of meat slicer dirty with food debris. Clean all surfaces before after use.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Clean all plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals.
Inspector’s notes
Observed handwashing sink itself to be soiled with debris. Clean and maintain clean.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Post a sign at all handwashing sinks used by employees to remind them to wash their hands.
Inspector’s notes
Observed no handwash sign or poster at handwash sink in back of meat market. Ensure all handwash sinks have proper signage.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.
Doors and windows for all outside openings should be self-closing and tight-fitting. Seal openings along the outside of the building.
Inspector’s notes
Observed 2 inch gap between the door and door frame at the back entrance of the building. Discussed with operator. Provide tight fitting doors to prevent the entrance of pests.
In plain English
An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.
Inspector’s notes
Observed floors (underneath equipment) and walls in need of more frequent cleaning. Clean and maintain clean.
In plain English
Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.
Keep at each handwashing sink or group of adjacent handwashing sinks one of: • A supply of disposable towels • A continuous towel system • An approved air temperature hand drying device
Inspector’s notes
Observed no paper towels at handwash station in back of meat market. Ensure all handwash stations are fully stocked.
In plain English
Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.