WEST CHESTER, PA — A series of routine food safety inspections this week uncovered temperature violations, labeling failures, sanitation issues, and improper food storage practices at several Chester County establishments, according to newly released reports from the Chester County Health Department.
County officials emphasized that each inspection represents a moment-in-time assessment and may not reflect a facility’s long-term food safety performance. Still, the findings across multiple locations highlight persistent risks that can compromise consumer health if left uncorrected.
Buddy’s Burgers in Exton registered several violations on Nov. 25, including storing food in opened metal cans, failing to label squeeze bottles and ingredient containers, reheating cooled toppings to insufficient temperatures, and holding foods between 46°F and 47°F—above the required maximum of 41°F. Inspectors also cited cleanliness problems, including debris inside the walk-in cooler and dirty floors behind a freezer. A missing handwashing sign and improperly labeled chemical containers were also noted.
Farm to Table Retail Outlet in Honey Brook, also inspected on Nov. 25, was cited for selling baked goods without labels or source information and for improperly labeled eggs, despite previous warnings. The Health Department ordered immediate correction and required documentation proving the products came from a licensed source.
At Kokarako in Exton, inspectors observed an opened metal can stored in a prep area, unlabeled dry goods and squeeze bottles, missing date marks on ready-to-eat foods, and reused single-use containers. Additional violations included a dirty can opener, leaks under a three-compartment sink, fruit flies in the kitchen, exposed drywall, and over-concentrated chlorine sanitizer.
On Nov. 26, Malvern Gas Inc. in West Chester was cited after hot-held food items—including a chicken sandwich and two hot dogs—were found at temperatures below the required 135°F. Other issues included the use of non–food-grade storage totes, lack of food thermometers, debris inside a soda machine ice chute, and unclean floors around dumpsters and inside the walk-in cooler. Inspectors also noted the absence of a handwashing reminder sign in the restroom.
The Health Department reminds residents that unsanitary conditions or suspected foodborne illness can be reported confidentially through its Environmental Health Complaint system. Complaints trigger formal investigations.
Officials stressed that inspections help facilities correct issues and ensure public safety. They encouraged establishments to review food-handling standards regularly, maintain proper temperatures, keep equipment clean, and ensure all packaging and labeling comply with state regulations.
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