Joy Luck Buffet, a restaurant in Volusia County, Florida, was recently inspected by health officials and found to have 33 violations.
This included both basic and intermediate-level issues related to cleanliness, food safety, and proper storage practices. Due to the number and nature of the violations, a follow-up inspection has been scheduled.
According to the state inspection report dated June 5, the restaurant was cited for violations such as raw animal foods being stored over ready-to-eat foods, improper food temperatures, unclean kitchen equipment, and a lack of proper sanitization practices. Some violations were corrected during the inspection itself, but many required further attention.
Inspectors noted that raw shrimp and beef were found stored above ready-to-eat chicken and pork in the cooler.
There were also instances of cooked food being held at unsafe temperatures, such as cooked pork at 87°F and fried rice at 90°F, both of which are below the required hot holding temperature of 135°F or above.
Other issues included food debris on kitchen floors and behind appliances, dirty equipment, and a general need for better organization and cleaning of food preparation areas. The inspection also pointed out the lack of adequate handwashing in the kitchen and improper storage of utensils.
Because of the high number of violations, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) required the restaurant to correct the problems and undergo a follow-up inspection to ensure compliance.
Health inspections like these are carried out regularly in Florida to protect public safety and ensure that restaurants follow food safety rules.
Joy Luck Buffet will need to resolve the issues to continue operating without further penalties or possible closure.
As of now, the restaurant remains open, and the follow-up inspection will determine if it has successfully addressed all the health code problems.