In the realm of food safety inspections, Berks County's restaurant scene is under scrutiny, with a particular focus on the critical issue of pest control and hygiene. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's risk-based inspection process is a crucial tool in ensuring food safety, and recent reports reveal a concerning trend in some establishments. The inspection findings, spanning from April 26 to May 1, 2026, highlight a range of issues, with a particular emphasis on pest control and hygiene practices.
One of the most alarming discoveries was a decaying mouse found in a pest control device in a milkshake area at a restaurant. This incident underscores the importance of regular pest control and the need for immediate action to prevent further infestations. The inspection report also noted that the food facility was not removing dead or trapped pests from control devices frequently, which is a significant violation of food safety regulations.
The inspection results also revealed a lack of adherence to food safety standards in various establishments. For instance, at Main Street Pub & Restaurant, deeply scored cutting boards were observed, and food containers were being reused, which is a serious violation of food safety regulations. Additionally, the inspection found evidence of rodent activity in the kitchen area, with multiple areas showing signs of pest infestations.
Other establishments, such as Daniel Boone SD High School and Governor Mifflin SD Intermediate, also faced inspection issues. At the former, a mold-like buildup was observed on the floor under the dishwashing machine, while the latter had a leaking handwash sink and a faucet with visible lime buildup. These findings highlight the need for regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure food safety.
The inspection reports also noted a lack of adherence to food safety standards in mobile food facilities. For instance, at Italian Delite Mobile, a buildup of apparent mold was observed on the interior non-food contact surfaces of the ice machine. Similarly, at Kona Ice of West Reading, a self-serve soda machine was found to have food residue and was not clean to sight and touch.
The inspection findings also revealed a lack of adherence to food safety standards in food preparation areas. For instance, at Asia Kitchen, cooked pork was held at 99 °F, which is below the required temperature of 135 °F. This highlights the need for proper temperature control and monitoring to ensure food safety.
In conclusion, the inspection reports highlight a range of issues in Berks County's restaurant scene, with a particular focus on pest control and hygiene practices. The findings underscore the need for regular maintenance, cleaning, and adherence to food safety standards to ensure the health and safety of customers. It is crucial for restaurant owners and managers to take immediate action to address these issues and prevent further violations.
