Cockroaches in different growth stages found in kitchen and heating equipment in restaurant inspections of Lancaster County, conducted on September 19, 2025
In a recent round of health inspections, several food establishments in Lancaster County have been found to be in violation of health and safety regulations.
First, Panera Bread Bakery-Cafe on 2472 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, failed to meet the required standards of cleanliness. Trash was found overflowing in the back room, freezer, and walk-in cooler. The facility also had breads on the floor in several areas, and standing water was observed by the three-bay sink.
Next, New Jade House on 114 N. Reading Road, Ephrata, failed its inspection due to a lack of proper food safety knowledge by the person in charge. The three-bay sink and drying shelf were observed with buildup of filth and food residue, and both hand-wash sinks were missing soap, towels, hand-wash signs, and trash cans for used towels. Unprotected fried items in the prep area were found to be at risk of contamination, and assorted food in the walk-in box was stored open with no covering. Raw chicken was stored above other food in the walk-in box, and old food residue, dishes, and utensils were observed in the front hand-wash sink. The hand-wash sink in the back area was blocked by a container and not accessible at all times for employee use. Food employees were observed in the prep area not wearing proper hair restraints, such as nets, hats, or beard covers. The plumbing system was not maintained in good repair, with a leaking drain at the front hand sink, and containers of food were stored directly on the floor in the walk-in box rather than 6 inches off the floor as required. The screen door in the kitchen area was in disrepair and did not protect against the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals. There were not enough drainboards, utensil racks, or tables to allow for storage of soiled and/or cleaned items before and after cleaning. Litter and debris were found under and around equipment, and exposed food preparation was observed in the walk-in box under a dirty ventilation fan, putting it at risk of contamination. Toilet rooms self-closing doors were not functioning to keep the doors closed at all times, and nonfood contact surfaces, such as handles, knobs, and shelving, were not cleaned at a frequency to preclude accumulation of dirt and soil.
Lastly, Next Level Pizza, a mobile food facility Type 3 located at 1469A Lancaster Road, Manheim, was found to have a broken pump for the hand-wash sink. A temporary hand-wash station is being used, but this is a prior violation from September 2024.
Inspectors at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture focus on food safety, sanitation, proper food handling, and compliance with health regulations when inspecting restaurants and food establishments. They have the authority to close a restaurant if it poses a health risk. It is important for all food establishments to prioritise cleanliness and proper food handling to ensure the health and safety of their customers.
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