Sugar N Spice failed a routine health inspection on May 8, conducted by the Orange County Health Care Agency. Imminent health hazards were found at the facility, which led to its health permit suspension and closure. Lack of hot water throughout the facility was the primary reason listed for the insistence to cease operations.
Please note that the result mentioned here is from an inspection conducted on May 8 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishment.
Highlights
- Sugar N Spice, an ice cream shop in Newport Beach, was cited for multiple food safety violations during a routine inspection on May 8.
- A routine health inspection was conducted that revealed violations that led to the facility’s closure.
- The establishment is expected to follow the listed tasks in the inspection report before reopening the facility.
Sugar N Spice Failed Health Inspection
- Where: 310 Marine Ave, Balboa Island, CA 92662
- When: May 8, 2025
Sugar N Spice is a famous ice cream stand on Balboa Island since 1945, known for its hand-dipped Balboa bars and frozen bananas. Customers can choose from classic options such as Classic Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Butterscotch, and Cherry Dip. For 80 years, people have enjoyed these unique desserts, which were an accidental invention.
On May 8, the officials from the Orange County Health Care Agency conducted a health inspection at the shop upon receiving a complaint. The inspection identified critical violations, leading to the temporary suspension of the facility’s health permit.
Observed Risk Factors That Led to Facility Closure
The health inspection report highlighted critical risk factors and good retail practices that were being violated by Sugar N Spice. A valid Food Manager Certificate was not available for review at the time of the inspection. Some food handlers did not have California Food Handler Cards.
The inspector observed no dedicated handwashing station at the facility other than the one located in the restroom, and advised that additional handwashing stations should be provided. The report mentions that water from the two faucets of the 3-compartment sink and restroom handwashing sink measured 73°F. The inspector mandated that the facility ensure a continuous supply of hot water at 120°F or higher throughout the premises.
During the inspection, it was noticed that open containers of various ice cream toppings and sauces lacked lids. Furthermore, quaternary ammonium sanitizer test strips were not available for use during the time of inspection. Clean cutting boards were lying on the floor in the back area. The inspector educated the staff on storing all equipment off the floor on approved shelving.
Unnecessary items were stored in the back storage area. The report mentions that all non-essential items must be removed.
The officer observed missing base cove tiles in the back area. The coving must extend up the wall at least 4 inches. Prior to floor changes, a sample has to be submitted for approval. The inspector also noted that the ceiling and wall materials were unapproved and under construction, indicating ongoing remodeling.
Due to identified imminent health hazards, the outlet is required to eliminate all violations, including ensuring hot water supply throughout the facility. Additionally, since construction or remodeling was underway, plans have to be submitted for review and approval of the health department.
