Deli passes county food inspection with just one problem observed

A deli in the Spring area recently passed its Harris County food safety inspection with just one violation.

County staff visited Stars Deli, 14405 Walters Road, on Jan. 26. They gave the restaurant a score of four demerits out of a possible 100. An establishment must earn 20 demerits to be considered "of concern" and in need of a follow-up visit.

The demerits were given for an "approved systems" violation, which could indicate improper time marking of food held over 24 hours or similar lapses in procedure. According to the Harris County website, this problem is not among the kinds of violations most associated with food-borne illness by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The score of three demerits is about typical for Stars. The deli received four demerits (also for an "approved systems" problem) in September 2010 and three demerits in May 2010.

For more information on how Harris County conducts food safety inspections, visit www.hcphes.org.