Inspectors documented: "10f. Non-food contact surface or equipment made of unacceptable material, not kept clean, or not properly sealed, raised, spaced or movable to allow accessibility for cleaning on all sides, above and." This finding indicates a need for compliance with established food safety protocols.
The inspection found infractions involving pest control, a fundamental aspect of food service operations.
Restaurant industry studies show that pest-related violations often correlate with other sanitation deficiencies According to FDA Food Code Standards, The FDA Food Code mandates that food storage areas remain free from pest contamination at all times. This regulatory framework ensures that food service establishments meet rigorous safety standards.
Health department officials noted violations related to sanitation, which require attention for public health compliance.
Sanitation violations encompass a broad spectrum of cleanliness and maintenance issues that affect food safety Data compiled by food safety institutions reveals that Proper sanitation practices prevent cross-contamination and maintain the integrity of food preparation environments. Per FDA Sanitation Standards, such standards maintain that dining facilities comply with comprehensive protection measures.
In addition to regulatory requirements, these issues may affect the business's standing and public trust. Community health organizations track health department findings to provide education to local residents.
Local regulatory authorities have ordered that Melt N Dip swiftly remediate the documented deficiencies before reopening to customers. Additional review is planned to confirm remediation.
The broader restaurant industry can learn valuable lessons from such cases, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance to food safety standards. Consumer awareness remains a crucial component in maintaining community food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was this inspection conducted?
This inspection was conducted on August 5, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 20-04: “Choking first aid” poster not posted. “Alcohol and Pregnancy” warning sign not posted. Resuscitation equipment: exhaled air resuscitation masks (adult & pediatric), latex gloves, sign not posted. | 28-06: Contract with a pest management professional not in place. Record of extermination activities not kept on premises. | 04A: Food Protection Certificate (FPC) not held by manager or supervisor of food operations. | 06C: Food, supplies, or equipment not protected from potential source of contamination during storage, preparation, transportation, display, service or from customer’s refillable, reusable container. Condiments not in single-service containers or dispensed directly by the vendor. | 06A: Personal cleanliness is inadequate. Outer garment soiled with possible contaminant. Effective hair restraint not worn where required. Jewelry worn on hands or arms. Fingernail polish worn or fingernails not kept clean and trimmed. | 04N: Filth flies or food/refuse/sewage associated with (FRSA) flies or other nuisance pests in establishment’s food and/or non-food areas. FRSA flies include house flies, blow flies, bottle flies, flesh flies, drain flies, Phorid flies and fruit flies. | 06F: Wiping cloths not stored clean and dry, or in a sanitizing solution, between uses. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas..
Why are these violations concerning?
Health code violations can increase the risk of foodborne illness. Common concerns include improper food temperatures (which can allow bacteria growth), inadequate handwashing facilities (which can spread germs), pest activity (which can contaminate food), and cross-contamination risks. These violations are monitored by health departments to ensure public safety and prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.