Recent food safety inspections in Berks County, Pennsylvania, uncovered insect activity in the kitchens of two restaurants. This alarming finding is part of routine checks conducted by local and state inspectors, which aim to ensure compliance with health regulations and maintain food safety standards.
Berks County is subdivided into three jurisdictions: Reading, Muhlenberg Township, and the remainder of the county. Each area has designated food safety inspectors, with Reading and Muhlenberg Township operating independently while the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) oversees inspections for the rest of the county. The results of these inspections are made publicly available every two weeks, with all food vendors required to undergo at least one inspection per year. Additional inspections may occur due to ownership changes, previous compliance issues, or complaints lodged with the PDA.
The latest inspection results, covering the period from September 16 to September 30, 2025, were filed in the state database on October 2. Here is a summary of significant findings during this period:
Inspection Highlights
Among the restaurants inspected, the **Hong Kong** restaurant at **51 King Plaza, Oley** reported one violation, noting the presence of insect activity in the kitchen. The facility is expected to continue its pest control efforts to address the issue. Another establishment, **Pollo’s Don Juan 2**, located at **1665 State Hill Road Unit 980, Reading**, faced four violations, including inadequate sanitizer test strips and indications of insect activity in the back food preparation area.
**Penske North**, situated at **2675 Morgantown Road, Reading**, had four violations, including a mold-like buildup in the ice machine and various foods that were not labeled correctly. The facility was also found to be in possession of a marinara sauce that had exceeded its seven-day use-by date.
In contrast, several establishments maintained compliance with no reported violations. For instance, **Autumn Festival At Savidge Farms** at **1710 State St., Mertztown**, and **Honey Belle Events** at **1606 Whitfield Blvd., Reading** both passed their inspections without any issues.
Compliance and Public Safety
The inspections are crucial for maintaining public health standards. When a food provider is marked as out of compliance, it indicates that one or more violations have been identified, necessitating a follow-up visit by an inspector. Facilities are allowed to continue operations while they remedy the issues, ensuring that food remains available to the public.
The PDA encourages residents to report any concerns regarding food safety directly through their online complaint system. Access to specific inspection reports is also available online, providing transparency and accountability within the food service industry.
As food safety remains a priority in Berks County, ongoing inspections by local and state authorities are essential to safeguarding public health and ensuring that food establishments meet the necessary standards.