CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio – Two Circleville restaurants, Los Camperos and Tim Hortons, recently failed inspections conducted by the Pickaway County Public Health District, raising concerns about food safety practices at the establishments.
Los Camperos:
Los Camperos, also operating under the name Los Mariachis, LLC, located at 23633 S US 23 Hwy, Circleville, underwent inspections on February 6th and 20th, uncovering several critical violations.
- Improper Cooling: Inspectors identified failures in ensuring food reached safe temperatures during cooling. On both inspection dates, critical violations were cited for improper cooling of potentially hazardous foods, including refried beans exceeding safe temperatures. Additionally,the person in charge was found not utilizing a properly calibrated thermometer to monitor cooling procedures.
- Food Contamination: Violations were noted for improper food storage and handling practices that could lead to contamination. Inspectors observed uncovered food in the preparation cooler,highlighting a lack of proper separation and protection for food items.
- Inaccurate Thermometers: Critical violations were issued for inaccurate food thermometers, raising concerns about the validity of temperature measurements used to ensure food safety. The person in charge was unable to explain proper calibration procedures for thermometers.
Tim Hortons:
A separate inspection at the Tim Hortons located at 23923 US Rte 23, Circleville, was prompted by a customer complaint. The customer brought in a bottle of apple juice purchased that morning, containing visible mold on the rim.
- Moldy Apple Juice: Inspectors confirmed the presence of mold in unopened bottles of apple juice and cited the store for failing to discard or properly recondition unsafe food items. All identified moldy juices were removed from the store during the inspection.
The Pickaway County Public Health District urges residents to review restaurant inspection reports before dining out and to report any suspected food safety concerns to the department.
Both Los Camperos and Tim Hortons are required to address the identified violations and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
