The Inspection Services Department carries out the general health & safety inspections of occupancies requiring a health permit within the jurisdiction of the City of Nacogdoches. The primary function of the Health Inspector is the interpretation, inspection and field compliance efforts of the technical codes and laws. These codes and laws are Federal, State and Local. In addition the Health Inspector with support from the Inspection Services Department carries out the responsibility of data entry, account billing and record keeping.

Local Health Inspections Highlight Minor Issues at Grocery and Convenience Stores

Nacogdoches, TX – The latest weekly health inspection report from the local health department, has been released, revealing a series of routine checks on food establishments in the area. Inspector conducted health inspections at several locations, including a Dollar General, a Smoothie King, and various departments within the Kroger store at 1215 North Street. While no major violations were noted that would lead to closures, the report points to common maintenance and hygiene concerns, with demerit scores ranging from 2 to 5 points. These inspections aim to ensure public safety and compliance with food handling standards.

The Dollar General at 437 SE Stallings Drive Loop received 4 demerits during its health inspection. Violations included several pre-packaged food products with damaged lids, which were corrected on site or discarded. Additionally, inspectors noted several damaged ceiling tiles and reminded staff to keep dumpster lids closed to prevent pest issues. A minor note was added about water accumulation on site, though no further details were specified.

At the Smoothie King on 247 North Street, the inspection tallied 5 demerits. Key issues involved inadequate hot water at one handwash sink, which needs to be repaired to meet adequate temperature requirements. One damaged floor area near the sink was flagged for repair, and there were mentions of issues with sinks in general, emphasizing the need for proper maintenance in high-traffic preparation areas.

The Kroger Food Store at 1215 North Street, inspected as a whole, also scored 5 demerits. Violations encompassed corrected-on-site issues with canned food products, discarded damaged items, and maintenance needs in the men’s bathroom, including floor repairs. Scattered paper towels near trash dumpsters were highlighted for cleanup, underscoring the importance of ongoing sanitation around waste areas.

Breaking down the Kroger inspections by department:

• Bakery and Deli Department: 5 demerits. Paper towels were missing at one handwash sink, and an accurate visible thermometer was needed at one station. Under-equipment damage was noted in a cooler, along with several wall and shelf areas requiring attention. Floors were advised to be kept swept for better hygiene.
• Dairy Department: The lowest score at 2 demerits. The main issue was several pre-packaged food products that were discarded after being found damaged, with corrections made on site.
• Meat Market Department: 4 demerits. Two paper towels were needed at a handwash sink, and accurate visible thermometers were required. The inspection stressed providing these essentials at handwashing stations to maintain food safety protocols.
• Produce Department: Another low score of 2 demerits. A thermometer in one cooler area needs replacement, as it was found inadequate for accurate temperature monitoring.

Health department officials emphasize that demerit scores under 10 typically indicate minor, correctable issues rather than serious health risks. “These routine inspections help businesses stay on top of maintenance and ensure safe environments for customers,” said a department spokesperson. All establishments were given guidance on addressing the violations promptly, with follow-up checks possible if needed.

Inspection Report