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Cincinnati, OH

Sam's Market

2098 E Seymour Av

Last inspected Jul 27, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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Approved - Minor Violations

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ImprovingThe latest inspection recorded fewer violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

9 inspections

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Jul 27, 2026

Approved - Minor Violations

1 recorded violation

notedCode 6.1(M)Other

Official wording

6.1(M) - Outer Openings - Protected

Inspector’s notes

Outer openings of a food facility were not protected against the entry of insects and rodents. Back door needs to be repaired to prevent entry of rodents and pest.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jul 27, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Jul 20, 2026

Not In Compliance

12 recorded violations

notedCode 3.5(C)Food source and labeling

Official wording

3.5(C) - Food Labeling

Inspector’s notes

Food is not properly labeled. Observed sliced cakes in a reach in cooler missing labels with common name, net weight, ingredients/sub-ingredients.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
notedCode 4.5(A)(2)(3)Food temperature

Official wording

4.5(A)(2)(3) - Food-Contact Surfaces of Cooking Equipment and Pans and Nonfood-Contact Surfaces Equipment

Inspector’s notes

Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment are to be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. Observed heavy food debris, grease throughout kitchen on equipment, floors, and walls. Observed heavy grease on ventilation. Clean ASAP.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 6.1(M)Other

Official wording

6.1(M) - Outer Openings - Protected

Inspector’s notes

Outer openings of a food facility were not protected against the entry of insects and rodents. Observed back door that needs repairing. Replace or fix door so that light cannot be seen from outside.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
notedCode 3.5(C)(2)(e)Food source and labeling

Official wording

3.5(C)(2)(e) - Food Labeling - Allergens

Inspector’s notes

A food label did not include the name of the food source of each major food allergen contained in a food unless the food source is already part of the common or usual name of the respective ingredient. Observed sliced cakes in a reach in cooler without proper label including allergens. Had PIC remove cakes from shelf until labels can be made.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
notedCode 2.2(C)Handwashing

Official wording

2.2(C) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Hands and arms - When to Wash

Inspector’s notes

Food employee(s) did not wash hands in situations that specifically require them to do so. 1. Observed employees drinking tea and not washing hands after. 2. Observed employees changing task and gloves without washing hands. 3. Observed employees recentering kitchen area without washing 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.

More about handwashing problems
notedCode 2.3(A)Contamination

Official wording

2.3(A) - II. Good Hygienic Practices - Food Contamination Prevention - Eating, Drinking, or Using Tobacco Products

Inspector’s notes

Employees were eating, drinking or using tobacco in non-designated areas. Observed employees drinking tea throughout inspection. Make sure eating and drinking is done in designated areas away from food prep areas.

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.

More about food not protected from contamination
notedCode 3.4(G)(2)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(G)(2) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Ready-to-eat, TCS - date marking

Inspector’s notes

Ready-to-eat, TCS food that was prepared in a food processing plant and subsequently opened in a FSO or a RFE is not properly date marked. Observed bulk milk dispenser without proper date marking on package after opening for Half & Half. The day milk is opened is day 1 then add 6 days for the use-by date.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 3.4(F)(1)(b)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(F)(1)(b) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Time/Temperature Controlled for Safety Food - Cold Holding

Inspector’s notes

TCS foods were being held at temperatures >41° F. Dairy and egg cooler running at 50 degrees. Had PIC remove and discard all milk jugs and shelled eggs. Following up to see proper holding temperature.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 4.5(A)(1)Contamination

Official wording

4.5(A)(1) - VII. Protection from Contamination - Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces and Utensils: Clean to Sight and Touch

Inspector’s notes

Food-contact surfaces were not clean to the sight and touch. Observed food debris and buildup on potato wedge slicer on wall. Clean in place with soap and sanitizer. Following up to see cleanliness.

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.

More about food not protected from contamination
notedCode 6.3(C)(2)Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

6.3(C)(2) - Employee Accommodations-Designated Areas

Inspector’s notes

Lockers or other suitable facilities are located in an area where contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, or single-service or single-use articles can occur. Observed personal food and drink items stored on top shelf in cooler. Asked chef to move personal items so they don't spill on food or equipment.

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.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
notedCode 3.2(Q)Contamination

Official wording

3.2(Q) - Food Storage: Preventing Contamination from the Premises

Inspector’s notes

Food items are not protected from contamination during storage. Observed water draining from fan exhaust in reach in dairy/egg cooler onto items.

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.

More about food not protected from contamination
notedCode 4.4(A)(2)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.4(A)(2) - Equipment - Good Repair and Proper Adjustment

Inspector’s notes

Equipment components were not intact, tight or properly adjusted. Reach in dairy/egg cooler not properly adjusted to maintain at 41 degrees or below.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jul 20, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Mar 2, 2026

Approved - Violations Abated

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Mar 2, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Feb 3, 2026

Not In Compliance

3 recorded violations

notedCode 4.8(E)(1)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.8(E)(1) - Equipment, Utensils, Linens - Storage

Inspector’s notes

Cleaned equipment or utensils, laundered linens, or single-service or single-use articles are not stored in a clean, dry location, protected from contamination. Several single items stored directly on the floor. All single use items shall be stored 6 inches above the floor on a clean dry place not exposed to any contaminates .

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
notedCode 6.4(D)(1)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

6.4(D)(1) - Cleaning Ventilation Systems- Nuisance and Discharge

Inspector’s notes

Intake and exhaust air ducts are a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials. Exhaust hood is a greasy . Clean the exhaust hood, 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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 4.5(A)(2)(3)Food temperature

Official wording

4.5(A)(2)(3) - Food-Contact Surfaces of Cooking Equipment and Pans and Nonfood-Contact Surfaces Equipment

Inspector’s notes

The food contact surfaces of cooking equipment and pans and Nonfood contact surfaces of equipment are to be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Feb 3, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Apr 21, 2025

Approved - Minor Violations

2 recorded violations

notedCode 3.5(C)Food source and labeling

Official wording

3.5(C) - Food Labeling

Inspector’s notes

Food is not properly labeled. Several food items stored in a display cooler without proper labels

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
notedCode 6.4(B)(1)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

6.4(B)(1) - Cleaning- Frequency and Restrictions

Inspector’s notes

The physical facilities are not cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean. Floor under the shelves is dirty Discard Clean the floor 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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Apr 21, 2025 · Original Source

COMPLAINT - COMPLAINT

Apr 21, 2025

Approved - No Violations

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Apr 21, 2025 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Dec 23, 2024

Approved - Minor Violations

3 recorded violations

notedCode 4.4(D)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

4.4(D) - Warewashing equipment

Inspector’s notes

Warewashing equipment and/or components were not cleaned throughout the day or before 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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 3.2(M)(2)(a)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

3.2(M)(2)(a) - Wiping cloths

Inspector’s notes

Wet wiping cloth was not maintained in a sanitizer solution between uses.

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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 4.5(D)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

4.5(D) - Nonfood-contact surfaces - cleaning frequency

Inspector’s notes

Nonfood-contact surfaces are not cleaned frequently enough.

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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Dec 23, 2024 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Sep 23, 2024

Approved - Violations Abated

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Sep 23, 2024 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Jul 25, 2024

Not In Compliance

8 recorded violations

notedCode 6.2(C)Handwashing

Official wording

6.2(C) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Facilities

Inspector’s notes

Handwashing lavatory had no, unapproved, or inoperable hand drying provision. No papertowels provided and no adequate container for holding paper towels.

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.

More about handwashing problems
notedCode 3.4(G)(4)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(G)(4) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Ready-to-eat, TCS - date marking

Inspector’s notes

Date marking was not done in a consistent manner according to the code. Opened canned of green beans container in prep cooler not labeled with open/use date.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 6.4(A)Facility maintenance

Official wording

6.4(A) - Facilities: Maintenance: Good repair

Inspector’s notes

The physical facilities were not maintained in good repair. Damaged ceiling tiles. 2-3 damaged floor tiles in the front display area. Damaged tiles need to be replaced.

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.

More about building upkeep issues
notedCode 6.4(D)(1)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

6.4(D)(1) - Facilities: Ventilation systems: Cleaning

Inspector’s notes

Intake and exhaust air ducts are a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials. Grease in the exhaust above the fryer. Clean exhaust and maintain cleanliness.

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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 3.2(Q)Other

Official wording

3.2(Q) - Food Storage

Inspector’s notes

Food items are not protected from contamination during storage. Observed several packaged food items stored directly on the floor and on shelf less than 6 inches from the floor. All food items shall be stored 6 inches above the floor on a clean and dry place.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
notedCode 4.8(E)(3)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.8(E)(3) - Equipment, utensils, linens, single-service articles, and single-use articles - storage

Inspector’s notes

Single-service and single-use articles were not stored in the original protective package or were stored by means that did not protect them from contamination. Paper towels stored in bathroom on dirty surface.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
notedCode 3.2(M)(2)(a)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

3.2(M)(2)(a) - Wiping cloths

Inspector’s notes

Wet wiping cloth was not maintained in a sanitizer solution between uses. Wiping cloth left on table.

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.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 4.8(E)(1)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.8(E)(1) - Equipment, utensils, linens, single-service articles, and single-use articles - storage

Inspector’s notes

Cleaned equipment or utensils, laundered linens, or single-service or single-use articles are not stored in a clean, dry location, protected from contamination. Napkins stored directly on the floor. All clean equipment, linens, and disposable items shall be stored 6 inches above the floor on a clean dry place and not exposed to any contaminants.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jul 25, 2024 · Original Source

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