Montgomery County Food Inspections Reveal Serious Safety Violations

Recent food safety inspections in Montgomery County have uncovered serious violations, including the use of expired milk and significant ice buildup in freezers. Conducted during the week of October 5-11, 2025, these inspections targeted retail food and drink establishments under the jurisdiction of the Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH).

All establishments are inspected annually, with follow-up visits if initial inspections reveal violations or if complaints arise. The reports serve as a “snapshot” of conditions at a specific time and may not accurately reflect long-term cleanliness. Many violations are corrected immediately during the inspection process.

A range of establishments were highlighted in the inspection reports, revealing a concerning trend in food safety practices across the county.

Critical Violations Found in Various Establishments

At Ricos Tacos, located at 239 E Main St, Norristown, inspectors noted multiple issues, including the absence of a Certified Food Protection Manager. Additionally, raw shelled eggs were stored above beverages, and pesticides were improperly stored within the facility. The inspection, conducted on October 10, 2025, flagged improper thawing methods and contamination risks during food preparation due to a lack of adequate facilities.

Meanwhile, Rodeo Pizza and Grill, also inspected on October 10, 2025, faced similar issues. The establishment failed to mark food with proper discard dates, a critical requirement for food safety, and lacked appropriate labeling for chemical substances, putting customers at risk.

Specific Instances of Expired Products and Contamination

Other establishments exhibited alarming conditions as well. At Nanu’s Hot Chicken, located at 59 W Lancaster Ave, Ardmore, inspectors reported the absence of a Certified Food Sanitation Manager and a lack of policies for handling vomiting or diarrheal incidents. The facility was also criticized for hot holding cheese sauce in an unapproved container.

One of the most concerning findings involved expired products. At Ben & Irv Deli Restaurant, located at 1962 County Line Rd, Huntingdon Valley, inspectors discovered two half-gallons of whole milk in use, which had expired. This violation highlights a significant lapse in food safety protocols, raising concerns about the establishment’s commitment to consumer health.

The inspection reports underscore the importance of maintaining rigorous food safety standards. The MCOPH advises establishments to rectify violations promptly to avoid potential legal action. Facilities that fail to comply with the corrective measures outlined by inspectors may face further scrutiny and penalties.

To report any illness after consuming food or beverages from these establishments, individuals can utilize the MCOPH’s complaint form. Complete inspection reports for any establishment can be accessed through the county’s food safety inspection database, promoting transparency and accountability in food service practices.

As the public remains vigilant about food safety, these inspections serve as a crucial mechanism for ensuring that local food establishments adhere to health regulations, safeguarding the health of the community.