Taqueria Jalisco Orient Heights in EAST BOSTON, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 08/11/25

EAST BOSTON, MA - Health inspectors documented violations at Taqueria Jalisco Orient Heights during a routine inspection conducted on 08/11/2025.

Located at 980 SARATOGA ST in the East Boston area, the establishment serves the local community. The East Boston neighborhood maintains numerous food service establishments that undergo regular health monitoring.

The inspection identified 9 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 involved food storage practices. Inspectors documented: Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food (C). Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.

The second violation involved storage procedures. 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 temperature control. Inspectors documented: (A)(1) 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. Time-temperature abuse allows harmful bacteria to multiply to levels that can cause illness.

The fourth violation concerned hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Warewashing Sinks and Drain boards Self-Draining (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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The fifth violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Sanitizing Solutions Testing Devices (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. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

The sixth violation concerned hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Wiping Cloths Air Drying Location (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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The seventh violation related to sanitization. Inspectors documented: Floors Walls and Ceilings-Cleanability (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. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

The eighth violation involved handwashing procedures. 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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The 9th violation related to sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Ventilation Systems Nuisance and Discharge Prohibition (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. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

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 08/11/2025 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.