Rita's Fresh Pasta - Lower Level in CHARLESTOWN, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 08/21/23

CHARLESTOWN, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at Rita's Fresh Pasta - Lower Level in an inspection dated 08/21/2023.

Located at 32 CAMBRIDGE ST in the Charlestown area, the establishment serves the local community. The Charlestown neighborhood maintains numerous food service establishments that undergo regular health monitoring.

The inspection identified 6 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 hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Where to Wash (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 second violation regarded food storage practices. Inspectors documented: Food Storage Prohibited Areas (C). Chemical contamination from improper storage can cause acute poisoning.

The third violation related to pest management. Inspectors documented: Food Preparation (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 fourth violation involved food equipment. Inspectors documented: Good Repair and Proper Adjustment-Equipment (C). Malfunctioning refrigeration equipment can allow foods to enter the danger zone.

The fifth violation related to equipment operation. Inspectors documented: (B) and (C) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (C). Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils.

The sixth violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Cleaning of Plumbing Fixtures (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.

Health code violations require prompt correction to maintain operating permits. The health department typically conducts re-inspections to verify that identified issues have been properly addressed.

This inspection data is provided by Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 08/21/2023 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.