WEST CHESTER, PA — Food safety inspectors flagged a range of violations at several Chester County food establishments this week, citing improper food temperatures, equipment failures, and sanitation lapses during routine and follow-up inspections conducted by the Chester County Health Department.
Health officials stressed that inspections represent a snapshot in time and may not reflect an establishment’s long-term compliance record. Still, the findings highlight recurring risks tied to temperature control and cleanliness — two of the most critical safeguards against foodborne illness.
At Capl Retail LLC, operating as Joe’s Kwik Marts along North Pottstown Pike in Exton, inspectors conducting a follow-up inspection found cheese, Uncrustables, and cookie dough stored at 48 degrees Fahrenheit, above the required 41-degree maximum for time-and-temperature controlled foods. The items were discarded, and the display cooler was ordered removed from service for such foods until it can reliably maintain proper temperatures. Inspectors also noted the facility lacked a certified food manager, despite an employee having completed training.
In West Chester, Crisp Chick’n on East Market Street was cited for multiple equipment and sanitation issues. Inspectors observed a leaking faucet at the three-compartment sink, hot water temperatures topping out at 90 degrees instead of the required 110 degrees for dishwashing, and food-contact surfaces — including a milkshake mixer and utensils — bearing dried-on food residue. The facility was instructed to make immediate repairs and improve cleaning and utensil rotation practices.
More extensive violations were documented at Nudy’s Exton Café in West Whiteland Township, where inspectors found numerous foods held well above safe temperatures. Pork roll, turkey bacon, dressings, cut produce, lox, and shredded potatoes were all cited for improper cold holding, with some items discarded. Inspectors also reported uncovered cinnamon rolls stored beneath medication, raw eggs placed above ready-to-eat foods, and a lack of required date marking on opened commercial sauces. Additional concerns included dirty food-contact surfaces, residue inside the ice machine, unlabeled food bins, and buildup of debris on walls, fans, and ceiling tiles.
At Oola Bowls on East Gay Street in West Chester, inspectors cited the absence of a readily available probe thermometer, unlabeled food containers, uncovered beverages in refrigeration units, and improperly stored single-use items near a hand sink. Clean metal pans were also found with visible food residue, and a stained, bowed ceiling tile was observed in a restroom, indicating a possible leak.
The Chester County Health Department encourages residents to report suspected unsanitary conditions through its confidential Environmental Health Complaint system. Officials advise anyone who becomes ill after eating at a food establishment to contact the department directly by calling 610-344-6225 for investigation.
Health officials reiterated that most violations are correctable and emphasized the importance of timely follow-up and ongoing compliance to protect public health.
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