FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
BIG SAMS FOOD MART Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Grocery store
May 16, 2025
Canvass
License #2817600
5
Total Violations
1
Critical
2
Major
2
Minor
1
Corrected On Site
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
5
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE AND FILLED WITH MULTI-USE CONTAINERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL ITEMS FROM HAND WASHING SINK. HAND WASHING SINK IS FOR HAND WASHING ONLY AND MUST BE ACCESSIBLE FOR HAND WASHING AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED BOXES OF CHIPS STORED ON FLOOR BEHIND FRONT COUNTER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR. OBSERVED OPEN ARIZONA JUICE CONTAINER STORED INSIDE FRONT DISPLAY COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL PERSONAL ITEMS FROM COOLERS USED FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Why This Matters
Contamination during preparation is a leading cause of foodborne illness.
Food Code Requirement
Prevent contamination during all food handling.
Specific Requirements
Minimize bare hand contact; Prevent cross-contamination; Use clean equipment; Proper employee hygiene.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-307.11
Violation #43
MINOR
Violation Details
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED - Comments: OBSERVED HANDLE OF TONGS LAYING ON TOP OF SLICED TOMATOES IN PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE HANDLE ABOVE FOOD TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
Why This Matters
Improper storage contaminates utensils between uses.
Food Code Requirement
In-use utensils must be properly stored between uses.
Specific Requirements
Store in food with handle out; On clean surface; In running water; In water at 135°F or above.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-304.12
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP/DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP/DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Health Department Information
Department
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Division
Food Protection Program
Report Issues
Call 311 or File Online
More Information
CDPH Food Protection