A vegan and vegetarian foods provider in downtown New Canaan will be re-inspected by local health officials who recently found that water filters had been stored in the same container as cleaning chemicals.
During an unannounced inspection Oct. 30 at the Main Street eatery, a sanitarian in the New Canaan Health Department discovered a “risk factor” violation in the category of “toxic items properly stored, labeled and used,” according to the inspector’s report.
In addition to the water filters, the inspector found that dish soap was being stored in a clear plastic bottle with no label near a prep sink, according to the the sanitarian’s report.
Inspectors use a state Department of Public Health standard, citing food service establishments for violations that range in seriousness and corresponding weight from one to four points. A “failed” inspection is triggered either by one or more four-point or “risk factor” violations, or a total score of less than 80 points.
The re-inspection in this case is to take place by Nov. 13, the report said.
Organika Kitchen was cited for no other major violations. Minor citations included a cup used as a scoop for almonds, cans stored on the floor and ice wands in freezer touching box of food and inside of freezer fan cover, the report said.
New Canaan Director of Health Jen Eielson in a letter to Organika noted the public health code violations and that if upon re-inspection, the business again fails, “we shall take immediate steps to suspend your permit to operate a food establishment,” as per state law.
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