Down Home Delivery & Catering in DORCHESTER, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/14/23

DORCHESTER, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at Down Home Delivery & Catering in an inspection dated 04/14/2023.

Situated at 2 BOWDOIN ST, the establishment is part of Dorchester's active food service sector. The Dorchester area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.

The inspection identified 8 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 involved handwashing procedures. 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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The second violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Thawing (C). Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The third violation involved hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Manual Warewashing Sink Compartment Requirements (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. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands.

The fourth violation related to sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Sanitizing Solutions Testing Devices (Pf). 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. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

The fifth violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C). Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The sixth violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: System Maintained in Good Repair (C). Regulatory standards exist to minimize health risks to consumers.

The seventh violation related to sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Floors Walls and Ceilings-Cleanability (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.

The eighth violation concerned pest prevention. Inspectors documented: Controlling Pests (C). 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. Flies can transfer pathogens from garbage and feces to food preparation areas.

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 Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/14/2023 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.