SF Snack Shop Fails with Rodent Droppings Found in Food Area

A San Francisco convenience store failed its health inspection after inspectors discovered rodent droppings scattered throughout customer food areas and storage zones, creating serious health risks for shoppers purchasing everyday items. Snack and Bottle Shop at 644 Persia Ave in the Excelsior district failed this inspection on September 11, 2025, when inspector Montre Tieu found multiple critical violations that posed immediate health dangers to customers.

Rodent Infestation Throughout Food Areas

The most alarming discovery involved widespread rodent activity in areas where food was stored and sold to customers. Inspectors found fresh rodent droppings inside boxes containing prepackaged noodles located on customer sales shelves, meaning shoppers were potentially purchasing contaminated products. The contamination extended beyond the sales floor. In the back storage area where the deep freezer containing ice was located, inspectors discovered an accumulation of old rodent droppings on floors, indicating a long-standing infestation problem that had gone unaddressed. Health experts warn that mice produce up to 50 droppings daily, each potentially containing dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. Rats can spread plague and leptospirosis through their waste, creating serious risks when found near food products.

Critical Handwashing Violations

Compounding the rodent problem, inspectors found the facility lacked basic handwashing supplies essential for preventing disease transmission. Staff had no access to soap or paper towels at handwashing stations, with operators stating none were available at the facility and the violation could not be corrected during the inspection. This violation is particularly concerning in an establishment already dealing with rodent contamination, as proper handwashing is critical for preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses from contaminated surfaces to food products.

Storage and Permit Violations

Inspectors cited the business for allowing unused equipment and boxes to accumulate in back storage areas, creating ideal harborage conditions for vermin. This clutter provides hiding spots and nesting areas that encourage rodent populations to establish themselves and grow. The facility also lacked proper health permits and restaurant license certificates, indicating potential gaps in regulatory oversight and compliance training.

Neighborhood Impact

Located near Balboa Park BART, the store serves residents and commuters in the Excelsior neighborhood who rely on convenience stores for daily necessities. The discovery of rodent contamination in food storage areas raises concerns about product safety throughout the local food retail network. The facility was required to work with licensed pest control operators to eliminate rodent activity and clean all affected areas. Inspectors demanded current pest control reports be submitted to health officials for review.

Follow-Up Required

Following the failed inspection, the business underwent a reinspection on September 18, 2025, successfully passing the follow-up inspection after addressing the critical violations. This suggests the facility took immediate action to resolve the rodent infestation and restore proper sanitation standards. The case highlights the importance of regular pest control maintenance and proper sanitation practices in food retail establishments, particularly those serving diverse neighborhoods with high foot traffic from public transportation hubs.