Recent food safety inspections in Berks County, Pennsylvania, uncovered rodent droppings at one establishment and evidence of rodent activity at two others. The inspections, conducted between January 7 and January 20, 2026, highlighted various violations across multiple food vendors, prompting necessary corrective actions.
Berks County comprises three jurisdictions: Reading, Muhlenberg Township, and the remainder of the county. Inspectors from Reading and Muhlenberg Township conduct their own food safety checks, while the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture oversees inspections for other areas. Each food vendor undergoes an inspection at least once a year, with additional checks initiated by ownership changes, compliance issues, or complaints.
The results from the inspections conducted during the specified period are publicly available, with updates posted biweekly. The inspections are crucial for maintaining food safety and hygiene standards in the community.
Among the notable findings, the inspection of **Circle K Prime Foods Inc.** on January 20 revealed a single violation related to expired food items. Inspectors observed two boxes of **Cheerios** with a best-by date of **October 12, 2025**, and three jars of **Peanut Delight Creamy Peanut Butter** with a best-by date of **December 19, 2025**. This issue was corrected on-site.
**Dunkin Donuts** locations also faced scrutiny, with one store reporting three violations on January 15. The violations included improper storage of coffee beans directly on the floor and dust accumulation on vents. Corrective actions were taken immediately.
The inspection results reveal a mix of compliance and violations across various establishments. For instance, **Go Fish Seafood** in Reading had one violation on January 20 due to dust buildup in the kitchen, which was promptly addressed. In contrast, several venues, including **Hissho Sushi at Giant**, **St. Columbkill Parish**, and **Acker’s Beverage**, reported no violations during the same inspection period.
Additional establishments also faced issues, such as **Vinnie’s Pizza**, which had five violations, including improper food safety training for staff. **New Holland Food Mart** reported five violations, including expired food items and evidence of rodent droppings, though these issues were corrected during the inspection.
The inspections serve as a critical component in ensuring that food establishments adhere to health and safety regulations. They provide transparency and accountability, allowing consumers to make informed choices about where they dine or purchase food.
Citizens can access inspection reports online to view specific details about each vendor’s compliance status. Should any complaints arise regarding food safety, individuals are encouraged to submit them through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s official channels.
Regular inspections and public reporting play a vital role in safeguarding public health in Berks County, ensuring that food facilities maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety for their patrons.
