Hong Kong Harbor in EAST BOSTON, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/11/23

EAST BOSTON, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at Hong Kong Harbor in an inspection dated 04/11/2023.

Located at 5 MAVERICK SQ in the East Boston area, the establishment serves the local community. The East Boston neighborhood maintains numerous food service establishments that undergo regular health monitoring.

The inspection identified 7 distinct violations requiring correction. Health inspectors document such issues to ensure establishments take corrective action promptly.

The first violation related to equipment operation. Inspectors documented: In-Use Utensils Between-Use Storage (C). Malfunctioning refrigeration equipment can allow foods to enter the danger zone.

The second violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Wiping Cloths Use Limitation (C). 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. The CDC identifies poor hand hygiene as a leading contributor to foodborne illness outbreaks.

The third violation involved food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Thawing (C). Regulatory standards exist to minimize health risks to consumers.

The fourth violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C). Non-compliance with safety standards may create conditions that compromise food safety.

The fifth violation concerned handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Using a Handwashing Sink-Operation and Maintenance (Pf). 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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The sixth violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Maintaining Premises Unnecessary Items and Litter (C). Regulatory standards exist to minimize health risks to consumers.

The seventh violation involved sanitization. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Ventilation Systems Nuisance and Discharge Prohibition (C). FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces.

Establishments receiving violations must submit correction plans and may face additional inspections. Failure to address violations can result in fines, permit suspension, or closure.

This inspection data is provided by Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/11/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Boston Public Health Commission. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Massachusetts Food Code. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.