Pasadena Health Department Closes Ice Cream, Yogurt Shop

A Pasadena ice cream and frozen yogurt shop was closed by the Health Department on March 23 over claims of its inability to properly clean and sanitize utensils.

Aqua Star at 443 E. Orange Grove Boulevard received a rate of 55 – with 85 being a passing score to keep the establishment open.  A hearing was scheduled for March 24.

According to the inspector’s report, there were cups and a jar stored directly inside rice, ware-washing was done in one compartment mop sink without a sanitizer and there was no hot-water at the ware-wash sink at the time of the inspection.

The inspector also saw two burnt out lights in the ware washing area, as well as unapproved laminate (which appeared to be cracking and accumulating dirt between the tiles) flooring in the ware washing area, and in the food storage area.

There were also damaged front cabinets, with tape used to hold them together.

The health inspector ordered the operator to provide adequate training to all food workers, which includes providing a soap dispenser at the hand wash sink, and provide a handler certificate by April 23.  The health inspector also ordered the owner to provide a test kit for measuring sanitizer solution.

The owner was also ordered to elevate all containers off the floor at least six inches on height-approved stands and more the unapproved wood blocks.

Aqua Star remains closed until it can be re-inspected and recertified.