SF Market Fails with Mouse Droppings, Dead Rodents Found

Save-more Market in Pacific Heights failed a routine health inspection on September 22, 2025, after inspectors discovered extensive rodent activity including mouse droppings on shelving near wine and liquor bottles and dead mice caught on traps throughout the facility. The market at 1598 McAllister Street, located near Fillmore bus lines, received three violations during this inspection, with two classified as critical health risks requiring immediate attention.

Contaminated Food Discovery

Inspectors found clear evidence of rodent contamination when they discovered a bag of rice that appeared to have been gnawed through by rodents on store shelving. Additionally, a breakfast pastry package showed obvious signs of being chewed through on a lower shelf at the end of an aisle. Food safety protocols required all potentially contaminated items to be immediately discarded and removed from the sales floor to prevent customer exposure to dangerous pathogens. The presence of rodents in food storage and display areas poses serious health risks to customers, as mice can carry over 35 diseases including Salmonella and Hantavirus. Each mouse produces up to 50 droppings daily, spreading bacteria throughout the facility.

Extensive Rodent Infestation

The inspection revealed a significant pest control problem extending throughout the market. Mouse droppings were scattered on shelving in aisles containing wine and liquor bottles, indicating ongoing rodent activity in customer shopping areas. A dead mouse was discovered on a trap positioned next to a beverage refrigerator near the cashier station, suggesting the problem had escalated beyond prevention measures. Most concerning was the discovery of rat droppings behind shelving containing bottled liquor adjacent to the cashier area. Inspectors identified a large hole in the wall in this same location, providing direct access for rodents to enter the facility and contaminate merchandise.

Structural Deficiencies

The inspection revealed multiple structural issues enabling continued pest infiltration. Large holes in MDF walls near the cashier required immediate repair with proper materials. Inspectors specifically noted that foam sealant, which had been used previously, was inadequate as rodents can easily chew through this material. Additional entry points included a large hole in a small door used for meter reading on the building's McAllister Street exterior, gaps around the basement door requiring a door sweep, and holes in walls adjacent to the basement entrance. The facility currently had no active pest control service, contributing to the escalating infestation.

Required Corrections

Health officials mandated that all wall and floor holes be sealed with quarter-inch steel wire mesh, metal flashing, or complete wall replacement. The area behind the row of upright refrigerators must be made accessible for future pest control services. The facility must discontinue using foam sealant anywhere in the building and establish regular professional pest control service.

Follow-Up Actions

Save-more Market underwent a reinspection on September 26, 2025, which resulted in a passing grade, though ongoing structural issues remained. A subsequent follow-up inspection on October 9 resulted in a conditional pass, indicating continued monitoring by health officials. The market serves the Pacific Heights community along a busy transit corridor, making food safety compliance essential for protecting public health.