During the week of March 30, numerous establishments across Lehigh and Northampton counties underwent food safety inspections. These evaluations were carried out by various authorities, including the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, municipal health bureaus, and local city inspectors. Each inspection provided a detailed snapshot of the current compliance status of each business, focusing on areas such as proper storage, sanitation procedures, and employee certification. While some businesses passed with flying colors, others faced minor to significant violations that required immediate attention and rectification.
In Allentown, Above All at 514 N 22nd St. received five violations during its regular inspection on April 2, 2025. Among these issues were improper thawing methods for beef, inadequate sanitation processes, and outdated food safety manager certifications. Meanwhile, Los Amigos Restaurant located at 515 N 7th St. demonstrated exemplary standards with no reported violations from its recent inspection. Similar success stories emerged from other locations like Arts Academy in Allentown and Bar Bix in Easton, which also maintained full compliance.
Further north in Easton, La Bamba Mexican Restaurant and Bakery encountered three violations during their routine check-up. Key concerns included an overdue defrosting of the GE freezer, expired food employee certification records, and public display of an outdated certification. Conversely, Bath Mini Market in Bath had only one violation related to improper storage of eggs above ready-to-eat foods, promptly addressed during the inspection itself.
Another noteworthy case involves Casa Latina in Allentown, where three violations were noted. Issues ranged from incorrect food storage hierarchy to missing date markings on potentially hazardous ready-to-eat items stored beyond 24 hours. Mechanical problems, such as leaking drains and faucets in the three-compartment sink, added to the list of necessary repairs. Similarly, Casa Toro Mexican Grill in Coopersburg faced more extensive challenges with five violations impacting cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and hygiene practices.
Among educational institutions, Easton Area School District facilities showed varying levels of compliance. For instance, while Easton High School and Palmer Elementary School exhibited flawless results, Middle School faced two critical infractions concerning pest control measures and structural integrity around loading dock doors.
Ultimately, these inspections underscore the importance of maintaining high food safety standards within all types of establishments. Businesses must continuously adapt and improve their operations to ensure consumer protection and satisfaction. Through diligent adherence to guidelines and swift correction of identified issues, both large corporations and small enterprises can foster environments free from potential hazards.
As the inspections reveal, ensuring consistent compliance requires vigilance and proactive management strategies. By addressing even minor discrepancies swiftly, establishments not only protect public health but also enhance their reputation and customer trust. Moving forward, ongoing education and training programs for staff members alongside regular checks will play pivotal roles in sustaining these vital standards across Lehigh and Northampton counties.