URGENT UPDATE: A series of alarming food service inspections in the Santa Fe area from October 13 to 17, 2023, have uncovered significant health code violations, putting public safety at risk. The New Mexico Environment Department’s recent findings highlight critical issues at several establishments, with immediate corrective actions required.
Among the most concerning reports, Santa Fe Bite, located at 1616 St. Michael’s Drive, received multiple citations on October 14. Violations included employees handling food without gloves, improper thawing of chicken, and a string of unclean conditions, such as dusty kitchen vents and a dirty dishwasher. The establishment was also noted for a hole in the wall and mold present behind the dish machine, necessitating urgent reinspection.
At Yamas Greek Rotisserie on 2411 Cerrillos Road, inspectors found personal drinks stored among ready-to-eat foods in a cooler and missing internal thermometers in several coolers, raising immediate concerns about food safety practices.
The Wrap Santa Fe, a popular spot at 113 E. Water St. Unit 102, was cited on October 15 for serious sanitation issues, including a dirty ice machine and blocked hand-wash sinks.
In a more positive turn, both Tortilla Flats Catering and Crave (SITE Santa Fe), inspected on October 15 and October 16 respectively, reported no violations, highlighting that compliance is achievable.
However, the situation worsened at local schools, with Salazar Elementary School cited for storing food on the floor of walk-in coolers, and Santa Fe Preparatory School facing multiple citations, including pest infestations and inadequate sanitation measures.
On October 17, Jaripeo Grill And Beer on 3565 Cerrillos Road faced serious violations, including no soap at hand-wash sinks and improper thawing methods. These findings necessitate immediate corrective action and reinspection.
Walmart stores on 3251 Cerrillos Road also drew attention for lacking sanitizer during inspections, with multiple issues flagged related to food safety protocols.
Authorities emphasize that many violations can be rectified on-site, but others require detailed corrective action plans within a specified timeframe. This is critical for maintaining food safety standards in the community.
The New Mexico Environment Department continues to monitor these establishments closely, and reinspection results will be crucial for public health moving forward.
As these inspections reveal, maintaining rigorous food safety standards is vital for community health. Stay tuned for updates on corrective actions and further inspections as this situation develops. Share this urgent news to keep your community informed!
