New China in Ocala, Florida, faces 14 violations after Marion County inspection

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New China, a Chinese eatery at 5400 SW College Rd #304 in Ocala, Florida, received 14 violations during a Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation inspection on September 6, 2024. The Marion County restaurant wasn't ordered to close after this routine food inspection, but state records revealed that the issues must be addressed ahead of a follow-up inspection.

This is What Happened During The Inspection

The inspection record revealed six high-priority, two intermediate, and six basic violations.

The high-priority infractions included practices such as unhealthy food, such as raw chicken juice dripping into a container of ready-to-eat food, which resulted in a stop-sale order.

Additionally, food-contact surfaces were not adequately cleaned before use. The inspector's note also said that employees were seen handling food without washing hands after potential health issues, and raw animal foods were stored above ready-to-eat sauces.

Such practices demand immediate corrective measures to maintain food safety.

Intermediate citations pointed to inadequate employee training and mislabeling of chemicals—a paramount issue concerning food establishment safety.

Meanwhile, the basic violations reflect issues like unsuitable storage of personal belongings near food prep areas, and the use of duct tape for repairs, among others.

Ratings and Review: Despite these challenges, Ocala's New China restaurant maintains a solid 3.9-star rating from 201 Google reviews. The establishment is known for its variety of Chinese staples and lunch specials, with some customers praising its professionalism and friendliness.

Jing L shared on Google reviews after a visit:

The food was pretty good! I ordered from online, everything was great.

Located in Heath Brook Commons, New China offers both dine-in and takeout options.

However, the recent inspection highlights areas needing improvement to ensure consistent food safety standards.

High Priority Violations:

• Employee began working without first washing hands
• Food-contact surfaces not cleaned after cleaning, before use
• Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food
• Raw animal food dripping into container of ready-to-eat food
• Raw animal food stored over ready-to-eat food
• Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition