LAS TOXICAS #2 in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/10/23

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at LAS TOXICAS #2 during a routine inspection conducted on 04/10/2023.

The facility operates from 4145 W 47TH ST in Archer Heights, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 5 distinct violations requiring correction. These findings represent specific conditions observed during the inspection that must be addressed to meet health code requirements.

The first violation concerned pest prevention. Inspectors documented: Person in Charge Present, Demonstrates Knowledge, and Performs Duties - Comments: Pic Without City of Chicago Certified Manager Certificate. Instd to Obtain Certificate and Maintain on Site. The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Rodents can transmit Salmonella, Hantavirus, and other serious pathogens through their droppings and urine.

The second violation concerned handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate - Comments: No City of Chicago Certified Manager on Site While Handling Tcs Foods (cut Melons, Cooked Corn). Instd to Have on Site at All Times. Citation Issued 7-38-012 Priority Foundation. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The third violation regarded food storage. Inspectors documented: Food Properly Labeled. Chemical contamination from improper storage can cause acute poisoning.

The fourth violation concerned food storage. Inspectors documented: Original Container - Comments: Dry Storage Containers Not Labeled. Instd to Label and Maintain Same. Allergen cross-contact during storage can trigger severe reactions in sensitive individuals.

The fifth violation involved thermal management. Inspectors documented: In-use Utensils: Properly Stored - Comments: in Use Utensils Improperly Stored in Cold Water. Instd to Store Properly (such As a Clean Protected Location or Container of Water That Is Maintained at a Temperature of 135f and Cleaned at a Specific Frequency). The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Improper temperature control can lead to bacterial growth including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

The correction of health violations is monitored through follow-up inspections and documentation requirements. Establishments must demonstrate that they have addressed the root causes of violations, not just the immediate symptoms.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/10/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Chicago Department of Public Health. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Chicago Food Service Sanitation Rules. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.