New York grocery store inspection reports have revealed hundreds of food safety violations at supermarkets, delis and other food-related businesses in the greater Rochester area.
Details of each violation, from food stored at unsafe temperatures to issues with rodents, are now at your fingertips via a new searchable database launched by USA TODAY Network-New York at data.democratandchronicle.com.
You can check inspection grades for every store in the region, including Monroe, Livingston, Ontario and Wayne counties, over the past three years.
The reporting builds on a long-standing, ongoing effort focused on informing New Yorkers about results of restaurant inspections.
Restaurant inspections are done by the Monroe County Department of Public Health. Grocery store inspections are conducted by inspectors from New York’s Department of Agriculture and Markets who fan out across the state each day for surprise visits at retail stores that carry cheese, dairy and meat products.
How to find grocery inspection reports in NY
Our new database allows users to search for grocery inspections by county, store chain name or address. The results include food safety grades, as well as the inspection reports detailing each violation.
What we know about NY grocery store inspections
Stores that don’t pass inspections are given failing grades of B or C, which they must post in a conspicuous location at the facility. B’s mean critical deficiencies were found — perhaps employees not washing their hands correctly or food not stored at safe temperatures — and can be corrected at the time of the inspection.
Getting a C means inspectors will be back at the site within 60 to 90 days unannounced for a surprise follow-up.
Reporter Marcia Greenwood covers general assignments and has an interest in retail news. Send story tips to mgreenwo@rocheste.gannett.com. Follow her on X @MarciaGreenwood.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Hundreds of food safety violations found at Rochester-area grocery stores. Search now
Reporting by Marcia Greenwood, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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