Montgomery County Health Inspections Reveal Serious Food Safety Violations

Food safety inspections conducted by the Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH) from October 5 to 11, 2025, uncovered significant violations across various food establishments. Reports indicated alarming issues, including the use of expired milk and inadequate food storage practices, raising concerns about public health and safety.

During the inspections, several establishments were flagged for critical violations. For example, Ricos Tacos, located at 239 E Main St, Norristown, was found to have raw shelled eggs improperly stored above beverages in a refrigerator. Additionally, the establishment lacked a Certified Food Sanitation Manager (CFSM), a requirement under local health regulations. Inspectors noted that the facility must submit necessary paperwork within five business days to rectify the situation.

Another establishment, Rodeo Pizza and Grill at 31 W Main St, Norristown, faced similar scrutiny for not properly marking expiration dates on time/temperature control for safety (TCS) foods. The failure to label foods that are held longer than 24 hours can lead to foodborne illnesses. The MCOPH provided guidelines during the inspection to aid in compliance.

Health Risks in Local Establishments

A concerning trend emerged at Nanu’s Hot Chicken, where inspectors noted the absence of a written policy for managing vomit and diarrheal events, putting customers at risk. The facility was also cited for having raw food stored over ready-to-eat items, which increases the potential for cross-contamination. Inspection reports highlighted that facilities must have clear protocols in place to ensure the cleanliness and safety of food preparation areas.

At La Poblanita Mexican Cuisine & Bar, located at 419 W Marshall St, Norristown, inspectors discovered moldy bread in the dry storage room, along with improper date marking for shellstock tags. Such violations can lead to serious health hazards if not addressed promptly. The facility was given ten business days to provide proof of pest control treatments, as inspectors observed pest activity in the kitchen area.

Community Impact and Compliance Requirements

The MCOPH emphasizes that these inspection reports serve as a snapshot of conditions at the time of inspection and may not reflect the long-term cleanliness of the establishments. Many violations were corrected on-site during the inspections, but the findings highlight the ongoing challenges faced by food service providers in maintaining compliance with health regulations.

Establishments are required to rectify identified violations promptly. For example, Ben & Irv Deli Restaurant, located at 1962 County Line Rd, Huntingdon Valley, received citations for the absence of a CFSM and inoperable handwashing facilities. The facility must repair issues within a specified timeframe or face potential legal actions.

To report any foodborne illnesses or unsafe conditions, residents can use the MCOPH complaint form. The office encourages community members to remain vigilant about food safety practices in local establishments, as public health is a shared responsibility.

The full inspection reports for all establishments are available in the county’s food safety inspection database, providing transparency and fostering a safer dining environment for the community.