A flea market food court in Kissimmee was closed for at least three days after a health inspector found over 100 health code violations, including rat droppings and live roaches.
Main Gate Flea Market Food Court, which is located at 5407 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Kissimmee, was forced to close its doors from May 17 to May 19 after multiple failed health inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
During the first visit on Wednesday, May 17, a health inspector cited at least 41 health code violations, including 14 considered high priority. Among the high priority violations was the presence of rodent activity, as evidenced by nearly 20 rodent droppings found around the kitchen, as well as burrowing and nesting materials present.
Additionally, multiple foods were issued stop sales due to temperature abuse. That includes chicken that did not reach the appropriate internal temperature. According to the report, bone-in fried chicken was measured between 109 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken must be 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is added to a steam/warming table.
During a follow-up inspection the next day, many of the same issues were cited by the inspector. Once again, the inspector found nearly 20 rodent droppings in various areas around the kitchen.
During a third inspection on Friday, May 19, at least 35 violations remained, including the presence of live and dead roaches, as well as more rodent droppings found.
The location was inspected a fourth time on Monday, May 22. During that inspection, despite 31 violations remaining, the facility was permitted to reopen.