Health Inspectors Dish Out a Baker’s Dozen of Food Safety Report Cards

Food inspectors from the Pinal County Environmental Health Department have conducted rigorous evaluations of local food establishments in Maricopa over the past two weeks. Their inspections covered 13 establishments between December 14 and December 26, focusing on compliance with health and safety regulations.

The inspections began on December 16 at Pima Butte Elementary School and continued with visits to Sprouts Farmers Market on December 18, assessing its deli and sushi bar. Wetzel’s Pretzels, which opened on November 18, was also inspected for the first time, in addition to other well-known outlets such as Carl’s Jr., MOD Pizza, and Heritage Academy.

Inspections resumed yesterday, featuring major chains like Chipotle, Firehouse Subs, Starbucks at the Maricopa Station, Wendy’s, and Wingstop. Remarkably, no violations were found at any of the inspected locations, with each receiving an “excellent” rating.

This “excellent” rating signifies that all priority standards meet compliance requirements, affirming the establishments’ commitment to food safety. Meanwhile, other ratings range from “satisfactory,” where minor compliance issues are addressed on-site, to “needs improvement” and “unacceptable,” which indicate more serious health hazards.

The proactive engagement by Pinal County’s health inspectors not only ensures public safety but also upholds the high standards expected from food service providers in the region.