Mission Grocery Store Fails with Rodent Droppings & Pesticides

A Mission District grocery store failed its routine health inspection after inspectors discovered numerous rodent droppings and improperly stored pesticides, raising serious concerns about food safety and public health risks for customers shopping at the busy establishment. Mission Grocery & Liquor at 2130 Mission Street failed this inspection on August 19, 2025, when Inspector Katie Dea uncovered multiple critical violations during the 40-minute examination. The facility, located near the 24th Street Mission BART station, serves a high-traffic area with frequent foot traffic from commuters and neighborhood residents.

Critical Health Violations Found

The most alarming discovery occurred on the basement stairs leading to the facility's lower level near the restroom area. Inspectors found numerous rodent droppings that, while described as "old and dusty," indicated an ongoing pest control problem. The inspector noted that evidence of rodents must be completely removed and affected areas properly cleaned and sanitized to prevent contamination. Health experts warn that mouse droppings can contain dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. Each mouse produces approximately 50 droppings daily, meaning the "numerous" droppings discovered suggest a persistent infestation that could have exposed customers to serious foodborne illnesses and respiratory diseases. The inspector specifically ordered the facility to "CONTINUE to exclude rodents from the facility" and "KEEP door to basement closed to prevent vermin entry," indicating this was not an isolated incident but part of an ongoing pest control challenge.

Improper Pesticide Storage Creates Additional Risk

Adding to the health concerns, inspectors discovered a canister of RAID pesticide improperly stored behind the point-of-sale counter. This critical violation marked a repeat offense, suggesting the establishment had previously been cited for similar toxic substance storage issues. Storing pesticides near food service areas violates California Retail Food Code Section 114259 and poses serious risks of accidental contamination. The proximity to the counter where food transactions occur could expose customers and employees to harmful chemicals through cross-contamination.

Food Storage and Sanitation Issues

Inspectors also found personal items inappropriately stored with food products, specifically noting "a bike was leaning against boxes of beer." This violation demonstrates poor understanding of food safety protocols and creates contamination risks when non-food items contact consumable products. The inspector ordered immediate separation of personal items from food storage areas to prevent future contamination incidents.

Inspection History and Next Steps

This represents the first recorded inspection for Mission Grocery & Liquor in the city database, making the multiple violations particularly concerning for a new establishment. The facility was not ordered to close but must address all cited violations immediately. The restaurant industry establishment corrected some violations on-site during the inspection, including cleaning the rodent-contaminated areas and removing the improperly stored pesticide. However, the underlying pest control issues require ongoing professional remediation. Customers who recently shopped at Mission Grocery & Liquor should monitor for symptoms of foodborne illness, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult their healthcare provider immediately. The facility must schedule a follow-up inspection to demonstrate compliance with all health code requirements before receiving a passing grade from the San Francisco Department of Public Health.