Question 1

How many health inspections has MERLOS FRUTERIA had?

Accepted Answer

MERLOS FRUTERIA has had 2 inspections according to Florida DBPR records.

Question 2

Has MERLOS FRUTERIA ever been shut down?

Accepted Answer

No, MERLOS FRUTERIA has no emergency closures on record.

Question 3

What are the most common violations at MERLOS FRUTERIA?

Accepted Answer

The most frequently cited violations at MERLOS FRUTERIA are: Proper cooling equipment, Proper hand/arm washing, Proper sanitizing.

Question 4

What does Florida violation V01 (Management awareness) mean?

Accepted Answer

MANAGEMENT FAILURE: CDC data shows establishments without active managerial control have 3x more critical violations. The person in charge must demonstrate knowledge of foodborne illness prevention, HACCP principles, and Florida food safety law. Without oversight, violations go uncorrected, creating compounding risk of multi-pathogen outbreaks. Person in charge must be present during ALL hours of operation and must demonstrate knowledge of: foodborne illness risk factors, proper cooking temperatures, handwashing procedures, allergen management, and employee health policy. Must hold a valid Food Manager Certification per Florida Statute 509.039.

Question 5

What does Florida violation V05 (Handwashing procedures) mean?

Accepted Answer

CONTAMINATION PATHWAY: Improper handwashing is the single most significant factor in spreading foodborne illness. Hands carry 3,200 bacteria per square centimeter. CDC reports proper handwashing reduces diarrheal illness by 30% and respiratory illness by 21%. Inadequate technique leaves Norovirus, E. coli, and Salmonella on hands, directly contaminating food. Employees must wash hands for minimum 20 seconds with soap and warm water: before handling food, after touching raw meat, after using restroom, after sneezing/coughing, after handling garbage, after touching face/hair, when switching tasks. Use proper technique: wet hands, apply soap, scrub 20 seconds including fingertips and between fingers, rinse, dry with single-use towel.

Question 6

What does Florida violation V08 (Proper hand/arm washing) mean?

Accepted Answer

TECHNIQUE FAILURE: Improper handwashing technique leaves pathogens on hands even when a handwashing attempt is made. Studies show 95% of people wash hands incorrectly — most don't scrub for 20 seconds or miss fingertips, thumbs, and between fingers. Incomplete washing creates a false sense of security while still transferring E. coli, Norovirus, and Salmonella to food. Correct technique requires: wet hands with clean warm water, apply soap, lather and scrub for 20+ seconds covering all surfaces including fingertips/nails/between fingers/back of hands, rinse thoroughly, dry with single-use towel. Use towel to turn off faucet. Do NOT use hand sanitizer as substitute for handwashing.

MERLOS FRUTERIA

Inspection History (2)

High Priority Violations

Intermediate Violations

How Does This Facility Compare?

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