Inspectors temporarily shut down Bradenton taco truck with bug and rodent problems

Florida’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants routinely inspects restaurants, food trucks and other food service establishments for public health and cleanliness issues.

The reports are public information.

During recent inspections, a taco truck in Bradenton was temporarily shut down after inspectors found signs of rodent and insect activity:

Taqueria Mi Reina, 1880 63rd Ave. E., Bradenton (food truck) — Inspected and temporarily shut down Thursday, Nov. 14.

• High priority: An inspector observed approximately 30 rodent droppings throughout the food truck.
• High priority: An inspector observed approximately five live, flying insects inside the food truck.
• High priority: The business was operating with no potable running water.
• Intermediate: Soiled dishes were stored in an employee handwash sink. Corrective action was taken.
• Basic: There was an objectionable odor inside the food truck.
• Basic: A back door, front door and service window were kept open during service.
• Basic: Bottled water was stored on the floor. Corrective action was taken.
• The business met inspection standards during a follow-up visit on Friday, Nov. 15 and was allowed to reopen.

Editor’s Note: According to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, these reports are a “snapshot” of the conditions present at the time of the inspection and are public record. The agency is required to inspect every licensed restaurant at least once per year, but new and “high-risk” establishments tend to be inspected more frequently.

When an emergency shutdown order is given by an inspector, it must first be reviewed and approved by agency supervisors. In order for a business to reopen, an inspector will continue visiting the establishment daily until compliance is met. Some citations may include a financial penalty. Inspectors may also respond to complaints, which can be filed at www.myfloridalicense.com.