The Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s Office of Food Protection conducted a routine inspection at a Chinese restaurant on Tuesday, June 17. The findings revealed that the restaurant was not complying with health standards. Food held at incorrect temperatures and improper handwashing practices were among the citations.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from a particular inspection conducted on June 17 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishment.
Highlights
- Panda Express was inspected by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s Office of Food Protection on Tuesday.
- The Chinese fast-food restaurant was found to be out of compliance with health department standards.
- The establishment must obtain a food safety certificate to avoid having its health license revoked.
Panda Express
Where: 3551 Aramingo Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19134
When: June 17, 2025 (11:05 AM to 01:55 PM)
The inspection identified 4 risk factor/intervention violations at Panda Express. The report noted that the person in charge held a ServSafe Training Certificate, which does not meet the requirement for a valid City-issued Food Safety Certificate.
The inspector noted that food employees did not wash their hands before wearing single-use gloves and also between changing tasks. The PIC instructed the designated employee, who complied and corrected the violation on-site.
The temperatures at the handwashing sinks in the restrooms were measured at 76-96 degrees F, as opposed to the required 100 degrees F. This issue was addressed on-site, with the final readings at 100-104 degrees F.
Ready-to-eat food held for over 48 hours was not properly date-marked. The PIC rectified the issue by marking it with the date when the food was opened/prepped, as required.
Minor food debris was noted on the floor of the dining area. The health inspection report is available online.
Follow-up Requirements
The establishment should submit its application and fee to obtain the City of Philadelphia Department of Public Health Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate within 30 days of the inspection date. Failure to do so may result in the restaurant being subject to an intent to cease operations order.
Section 6-502 of the Philadelphia Health Code requires the restaurant to correct all the listed violations. Non-compliance may lead to revocation of the health license and other legal consequences.
