Health department documentation states: "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." Such infractions require correction to meet regulatory standards.
The inspection identified violations related to sanitation, an important area of food safety.
Public health authorities continually highlight the fundamental significance of comprehensive sanitation practices. Studies from public health organizations show that The FDA Food Code establishes comprehensive sanitation requirements that form the foundation of safe food service operations. The FDA Sanitation Standards offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.
These types of violations require attention to maintain compliance standards for the establishment and its customers. Health officials note that addressing such conditions helps maintain public confidence in food service establishments.
City health officials have required that Punjabi Spice promptly correct these infractions before continuing food service. Re-examination will be conducted to ensure corrections.
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 11, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 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 underneath the unit. | 02H: After cooking or removal from hot holding, TCS food not cooled by an approved method whereby the internal temperature is reduced from 140 °F to 70 °F or less within 2 hours, and from 70 °F to 41 °F or less within 4 additional hours. | 04M: Live roaches in facility's food or non-food area. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas. | 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. | 10B: Anti-siphonage or back-flow prevention device not provided where required; equipment or floor not properly drained; sewage disposal system in disrepair or not functioning properly. Condensation or liquid waste improperly disposed of. | 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. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests..
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.