WHOLE FOODS MARKET in ROXBURY, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 08/07/25

ROXBURY, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at WHOLE FOODS MARKET in an inspection dated 08/07/2025.

The facility operates from 310 HARRISON AV in Roxbury, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 8 distinct violations requiring correction. Health inspectors document such issues to ensure establishments take corrective action promptly.

The first violation involved management certification. Inspectors documented: (A) Certified Food Protection Manager (C). The FDA Food Code mandates that at least one employee with supervisory responsibility be a certified food protection manager to ensure active managerial control. For more information, see FDA certified food protection manager requirements. Language barriers without proper training can lead to misunderstandings.

The second violation regarded food storage practices. Inspectors documented: Food Storage-Preventing Contamination from the Premises (C). Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.

The third violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination (C). Regulatory standards exist to minimize health risks to consumers.

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

The fifth violation related to facility maintenance. Inspectors documented: Wall and Ceiling Coverings and Coatings (C). Inadequate lighting may result in improper cleaning or food preparation.

The sixth violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Hand Drying Provision (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. The CDC identifies poor hand hygiene as a leading contributor to foodborne illness outbreaks.

The seventh violation concerned food storage. Inspectors documented: Storage-Other Personal Care Items (C). Allergen cross-contact during storage can trigger severe reactions in sensitive individuals.

The eighth violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: When a HACCP Plan is Required (C). Health code violations require correction to maintain safe operating conditions.

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 08/07/2025 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.