Montgomery County Inspections Reveal Serious Food Safety Violations

Recent food safety inspections conducted in Montgomery County have uncovered significant health violations at multiple establishments during the week of February 1-7, 2026. The inspections, which are carried out by the Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH), revealed issues such as mold, rodent droppings, and the presence of cockroaches, raising concerns about the hygiene standards in local food facilities.

According to the MCOPH, these inspection reports represent a snapshot of the establishments’ conditions at a specific time. Each establishment is inspected at least once a year, with follow-up visits occurring if initial standards are not met or if complaints arise. It is important to note that many violations are often corrected immediately during the inspection process.

Key Violations Across the County

Among the establishments cited, several high-profile chains and local favorites were highlighted. For instance, a Dunkin Donuts location at 1882 Markley Street in Norristown was found lacking several essential postings, including the MCOPH Food Establishment License and the most recent health inspection report. Additionally, the facility had a cutting board with deep grooves and heavy discoloration, indicating poor sanitation practices.

Café San Pietro, located at 39-41 West Lancaster Avenue in Ardmore, was cited for improper food storage, specifically for hoisin sauce stored in an open can, which poses a contamination risk. The inspection also noted the absence of test strips to verify the proper concentration of chemical sanitizers used in the warewashing facilities.

Another Dunkin Donuts, this one at 407 Second Avenue in Collegeville, faced scrutiny for having multiple roach-like insects in the kitchen area. The establishment was given 10 business days to provide proof of pest control treatment to the MCOPH, which will conduct a follow-up inspection to ensure compliance.

Concerns About Public Health

The findings from these inspections are alarming, particularly regarding food safety and public health. Facilities like Ristorante Positano, located at 21 West Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, had unclean food-contact surfaces and ice build-up in freezers, indicating negligence in maintaining sanitary conditions.

The MCOPH emphasizes that these inspections are essential for protecting public health, as improper food handling can lead to foodborne illnesses. It is crucial for all restaurants and food service establishments to adhere to health codes and regulations to ensure the safety of their patrons.

For those wishing to report any health issues after dining at a local establishment, the MCOPH provides a complaint form for individuals to submit their concerns. The complete inspection reports are available in the county’s food safety inspection database for public access.

As inspections continue, local residents and patrons are urged to remain vigilant and advocate for higher food safety standards in their communities. The health department will continue to monitor compliance and take necessary actions to protect public health.