Whd Superette Market Fails with Cat, Cockroaches & Raid

Health inspectors discovered shocking violations at Whd Superette Market on Eddy Street in the Tenderloin, including a domestic cat living inside the store, dead cockroaches on the sales floor, and dangerous household pesticides stored in violation of food safety codes. The routine inspection conducted on August 26, 2025, resulted in a failing grade for the market located at 128 Eddy Street, near the Powell St BART/Muni station. Inspector Michael Mooney documented five violations during this inspection, including two critical violations that posed immediate health risks to customers.

Critical Health Violations Found

The most serious violation involved the presence of animals and pests within the food establishment. Inspectors observed a domestic cat living in the store and instructed management to remove the animal along with all cat supplies, including food and litter box. This violation is particularly dangerous because domestic animals can carry parasites and bacteria that contaminate food surfaces and products. Adding to the pest control concerns, inspectors discovered dead cockroaches on adhesive boards under shelving on the sales floor. While no live cockroaches were observed during the inspection, the presence of dead insects indicates an ongoing infestation problem that requires professional treatment. The second critical violation involved the improper storage of toxic substances. Inspectors found a can of Raid household insecticide stored under the restroom sink, directly violating food safety protocols. The inspector ordered the removal of all household insect poisons and mandated that pest control be performed by licensed professionals only.

Equipment and Temperature Failures

The market also faced significant temperature violations that put food safety at risk. The deli display refrigerator had been switched off for one hour before the inspection due to ice buildup, causing potentially hazardous foods to reach dangerous temperatures. Macaroni salad was found at 51°F and tamales at 49°F, both well above the required 41°F maximum for potentially hazardous foods. A two-door refrigerator containing juice had also been switched off, reaching an ambient temperature of 49°F. Both units were turned back on during the inspection, but the inspector ordered immediate refrigeration service to prevent future temperature control failures.

Handwashing and Water Temperature Issues

Basic sanitation requirements were also compromised. Inspectors found no soap or paper towels at the handwashing station at the cook line, though supplies were provided when requested. This violation forces employees to skip proper handwashing procedures, significantly increasing the risk of foodborne illness transmission. The restroom water temperature reached only 88°F, falling short of the required 100°F minimum needed for effective cleaning and sanitation.

First-Time Violations

This marks the first recorded health inspection for Whd Superette Market, making the extensive list of violations particularly concerning for a new establishment. The combination of pest issues, improper chemical storage, and temperature control failures suggests systemic problems with food safety protocols. The market remains open but must address all violations before the next inspection. Customers shopping at this Tenderloin location should be aware of the documented health code violations until corrective measures are verified by health officials.