Food Lion South Kings Highway Myrtle Beach Sc
Immediate health hazard reported at the Food Lion located on South Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach. County health officials have temporarily shut down the grocery store following critical violations discovered during a routine inspection.
The closure, effective immediately, stems from concerns over potential foodborne illnesses and unsanitary conditions. This situation demands swift action to protect public health and safety.
Urgent Closure: Food Lion Shuttered
The South Kings Highway Food Lion, situated at a key location in Myrtle Beach, was ordered to cease operations earlier today. Horry County Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) initiated the shutdown after a surprise inspection revealed multiple critical health code violations.
Specifically, inspectors found evidence of rodent infestation throughout the store, including the deli and produce sections. Improper food storage temperatures also posed a significant risk, leading to the swift decision to close the location.
Details of the Inspection
The DHEC report, released this afternoon, outlines the numerous infractions. Live and dead rodents were observed on shelving and in storage areas.
Food items, particularly perishable goods like meat and dairy, were found to be stored at temperatures exceeding safe levels. This greatly increases the risk of bacterial growth and contamination.
Additionally, the report noted issues with sanitation practices among employees. Lack of proper handwashing facilities and inadequate cleaning procedures further contributed to the unsafe environment.
Impact on the Community
The closure of this Food Lion creates immediate challenges for residents in the South Kings Highway area. Many rely on this store for their daily groceries.
Local residents expressed frustration and concern over the sudden closure. The nearest alternative grocery stores are located several miles away, posing transportation challenges for some.
The store employed roughly 45 people, whose employment status is now uncertain pending the store’s reopening.
DHEC's Response and Timeline
DHEC officials stated that the Food Lion will remain closed until all violations are addressed and a follow-up inspection confirms compliance. The exact reopening date is currently unknown.
The store’s management has been instructed to thoroughly clean and sanitize the entire premises. Pest control measures must be implemented and verified.
Furthermore, all employees will undergo retraining on proper food handling and sanitation procedures. This aims to prevent future occurrences of similar violations.
Previous Violations at the Store
While this closure marks the most severe action taken against this particular Food Lion, past inspections have revealed minor violations. Records indicate several warnings regarding cleanliness and food storage over the past year.
However, none of the previous infractions reached the severity level of the current violations. This led to the immediate closure of the store.
The accumulation of violations raised questions about management's commitment to maintaining a safe and sanitary environment for customers.
Legal Ramifications
Food Lion could face fines and other penalties from DHEC as a result of the violations. The extent of the penalties will depend on the company's response and the speed with which they rectify the issues.
Legal experts suggest that the company could also face potential lawsuits from customers who experience foodborne illnesses linked to the store.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to strict health and safety standards in the food industry.
Next Steps and Ongoing Developments
DHEC will conduct a follow-up inspection within the next week to assess Food Lion's progress. The store can only reopen once DHEC is satisfied that all violations have been corrected.
This is a developing story and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for updates on when the Food Lion may reopen.
Consumers are advised to check DHEC's website for the latest information and inspection reports.
