Kakaako Bubble Tea Shop Fined for Removing Health Violation Placard: A Warning to All Food Businesses
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A Kakaako bubble tea and dessert shop, GFL Tea LLC, has been fined $2,000 for a serious breach of health and safety regulations. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to health codes and the consequences of non-compliance.
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) issued a Notice of Violation and Order against the shop, which operates in partnership with Sun Tea Mix on 400 Keawe St. The violation was a result of multiple critical health code breaches observed during an inspection on July 30.
The health inspector noted the following violations:
- Absence of a food handler with valid certification on-site
- Inaccessibility of the handwashing sink
- Lack of protection against cross-contamination
- Chlorine sanitizer at incorrect concentration
- Hot water for manual ware washing not at the required 110 degrees Fahrenheit
As a result, the inspector issued a yellow placard, which is part of the Color Coded Placard Program, to indicate the presence of two or more critical violations. This placard is a crucial indicator of a food establishment's compliance with health and safety standards.
However, on August 2, the inspector discovered that the employees had unlawfully removed the placard, an action that can only be taken by DOH agents. This removal is considered a serious violation, as placards provide essential information about a food establishment's adherence to health and safety requirements.
Peter Oshiro, environmental health program manager, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that since the program's inception in 2014, only eight restaurants have tampered with a placard. This breach not only endangers public health but also carries legal consequences.
GFL Tea LLC has 20 days to request a hearing to contest the notice. The case serves as a reminder for all food businesses to prioritize health and safety, ensuring that their operations meet the highest standards. For further information, visit the state health department's website.
Copyright 2025 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
