Uncovering the Unseen: Florida's Pest Control Crackdown Reveals Troubling Findings

In a recent sweep of inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, a troubling pattern emerged – numerous establishments were found to have significant pest control issues. From Wendy's to Peyton's Place Bar & Grill, the findings paint a concerning picture of the state's food service industry's struggle to maintain proper sanitation and food safety standards.

Exposing the Invisible Threat: Florida's Pest Control Woes

Wendy's: A Cinnabon Catastrophe

The Wendy's location in the Pinecrest area faced a particularly alarming situation, with inspectors uncovering a staggering 6 violations. The most concerning finding was the presence of live flying insects inside a box of Cinnabon buns, indicating a severe breakdown in food handling and storage protocols. The restaurant was immediately ordered to shut down, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive pest control overhaul.

Peyton's Place Bar & Grill: A Swarming Sanctuary

Peyton's Place Bar & Grill in Sunrise was also the subject of a shutdown order, with inspectors discovering a veritable insect invasion. Approximately 20 flying insects were found landing on the ceiling in front of the dish area, while numerous others were observed in the dry storage, kitchen, and food preparation areas. The establishment's woes were compounded by issues with temperature control and improper food storage, further jeopardizing the safety of its patrons.

Kostas Greek Eatery: A Roach Rendezvous

Kostas Greek Eatery in Pompano Beach faced a similar fate, with inspectors uncovering a troubling roach infestation. Live roaches were found above the triple sink at the front counter prep area, as well as beneath the same sink. The presence of dead roaches on the premises only added to the unsanitary conditions, leading to the restaurant's closure.

Mom's Kitchen: A Breeding Ground for Pests

The inspection at Mom's Kitchen in Oakland Park revealed the most extensive pest control issues, with a staggering 44 violations identified. The dry storage room adjacent to the kitchen was found to be a veritable roach haven, with approximately 9 dead roaches lining the wall and 3 more beneath the pot and pan storage. The presence of live flying insects in the dry storage room and the walk-in cooler further compounded the establishment's woes, leading to a stop-sale order on various food items.

Denny's of Hallandale: A Roach Resurgence

Denny's of Hallandale was also found to have a roach problem, with live roaches spotted on the cutting board, wall, and behind the trash can in the kitchen. The presence of dead roaches on the premises only added to the unsanitary conditions, and the restaurant was ordered to address the issue through a follow-up inspection.

Kentucky Fried Chicken: A Swarming Sanctuary

The Kentucky Fried Chicken location in Davie was not spared from the pest control woes, with inspectors discovering a significant presence of live, small flying insects in the kitchen, food preparation, and storage areas. Approximately 15 live insects were found landing on boxes of single-service items, while another 20 were observed on the walls of the dry storage area.

Vue Kitchen: A Multifaceted Pest Problem

Vue Kitchen in Fort Lauderdale faced a multifaceted pest control challenge, with inspectors finding both dead roaches in the dry storage room and a concerning number of live, small flying insects throughout the establishment. The flying insects were spotted on the kitchen cook line, the back kitchen prep area, the front wait station, and the dry storage room, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem.