La Palmas Mexican Restaurant

Observed several wiping cloths not being stored in sanitizer while not in use. CA: Wiping cloths shall be stored in a chemical sanitizer at proper concentration while not in use. CO: Items were corrected on site

Observed spoon being stored in the pork with the handle not above the food. CA: All scoops/spoons being stored in food must have the handles above the food at all times. CO: Item was corrected on site.

Observed open box of noodles and open bag of flour being stored on shelf while not in use. CA: All food being stored must be stored cover/protected from cross contamination. COS: PIC had these items placed in plastic bags and labeled.

Observed dead insects inside the light fixtures above the tables in the dining area. CA: All dead insects/pests shall be removed from premises at frequency that prevents accumulation. COS: PIC will have the insects removed by the end of the day.

Observed dried food accumulation on shelf holding the microwave, on the bottom shelf of the prep table and on the shelves holding the spices. CA: Nonfood contact surfaces shall be kept free of food, soil or other accumulations. COS: PIC had these items cleaned/sanitized during the inspection.

Observed time/temperature control food being stored in plastic container in prep cooler with label showing name of food but without a proper date marking after the food was prepared and stored for service. CA: Food prepared and held in food establishment shall be clearly marked to indicate the date food is consumed, sold or discarded. COS: PIC illustrated when the food was prepared the night before and that the employee only labeled the food type did not date prepared or discarded. PIC explained to employee how to proper date/label food products when prepared.

Observed shelf holding microwave oven made with bare wood. CA: Nonfood contact surfaces shall be designed and constructed to allow easy cleaning and facilitate maintenance. COS: PIC will have the shelf painted or add protective sealer for ease of cleaning by date 12-18-2024

Observed back door to the facility not shut properly and was not self-closing. CA: Repair door to be self-closing and to properly fit/shut within the door frame by 6-12-2024.

Observed single use can of heavy peppers that was opened and being stored in the original can in the refrigerator. CA: Food was placed in a plastic container labeled/dated and placed back in refrigerator.

Observed wet mops in the back of the covered shelter being placed head down on the ground not allowing air to properly dry head. CA: Wet mops were placed with heads up to properly air dry.

Ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food prepared on site and held more than 24 hours with not properly date marked.

Food items in storage containers were not identified with the common name of the food item. Observed gallon of milk that was being stored in refrigerator that had an expired date. Items was disposed on site.

Observed single use can of heavy puree tomatoes that was opened and being stored in the original can in the refrigerator. Item was disposed.