Fresh Boston in SOUTH BOSTON, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/18/23

SOUTH BOSTON, MA - Health inspectors documented violations at Fresh Boston during a routine inspection conducted on 04/18/2023.

The facility operates from 232 OLD COLONY AV in South Boston, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 7 distinct violations requiring correction. Each violation has established correction procedures that must be followed to achieve compliance.

The first violation involved cleaning procedures. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Procedure (P). 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. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

The second violation involved temperature control. Inspectors documented: (A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P). 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. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating.

The third violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Nonfood-Contact Surfaces (C). Regulatory standards exist to minimize health risks to consumers.

The fourth violation involved handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Warewashing Machine Data Plate Operation Specifications (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. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The fifth violation concerned sanitization. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Agents and Sanitizers Availability (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. Cross-contamination from improperly sanitized equipment is a common cause of foodborne illness.

The sixth violation related to food equipment. Inspectors documented: (A) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (Pf). Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils.

The seventh 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 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 04/18/2023 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.