MASSARI FOOD MART in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 08/12/25

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at MASSARI FOOD MART during a routine inspection conducted on 08/12/2025.

Situated at 5531 W NORTH AVE, the establishment is part of West Humboldt Park's active food service sector. The West Humboldt Park area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.

The inspection identified 4 distinct violations requiring correction. Each violation has established correction procedures that must be followed to achieve compliance.

The first violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Adequate Handwashing Sinks Properly Supplied and Accessible - Comments: Noted No Handsink in Food Prep Area/ Dishwashing Room. Instructed to Install. 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 concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Proper Cooling Methods Used. Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The third violation involved temperature control. Inspectors documented: Adequate Equipment for Temperature Control - Comments: Observed No Cold Holding Unit for Kitchen and No Proper Cooking Equipment for Ground Beef That Will Be Prepared on Site. Instructed to Install and Maintain. Priority Foundation Violation #7-38-005. No Citation Issued.. 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 cleaning procedures. Inspectors documented: Allergen Training As Required - Comments: Observed No Proof of Allergen Training for Certified Food Manager. Instructed Any Persons with the City of Chicago Food Sanitation Certificate to Comply with Completion of Training. Must Provide Documentation.. 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. Cross-contamination from improperly sanitized equipment is a common cause of foodborne illness.

Establishments receiving violations must submit correction plans and may face additional inspections. Failure to address violations can result in fines, permit suspension, or closure.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 08/12/2025 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Chicago Department of Public Health. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Chicago Food Service Sanitation Rules. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.