Acme closed temporarily after City's inspection finds mice feces, debris in store

Acme Markets closed temporarily Thursday afternoon after the City’s recent inspection of the building found multiple instances of rodent activity, as well as an accumulation of debris and grease in several areas of the store. 

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has ordered Acme, which is located at 40th and Walnut streets, to cease operations and vacate the building immediately until the violations are corrected and certified by the health department. The order was issued on Sept. 8 at 1 p.m., according to a sign posted on the door of the grocery store’s building.

A Sept. 8 inspection report includes observations of a live mouse in Acme’s poultry prep room, as well as “visible physical evidence of rodent activity (mice feces)” in several sinks, in meal and floor areas, in the seafood department’s corner, and in the upstairs dining room area. 

Debris, mice feces, and grease were on the floors of Acme’s fryer and hot food prep area and ready meal area, according to the inspection report. Debris and old mouse feces were also on the floor of Acme’s upstairs dining room area, and debris was seen in Acme’s Starbucks store as well. Chips and debris were also seen in the shelves of Acme’s snack aisles, the report noted. 

The department noted Acme’s failure to comply with Title 6, Chapter 300 of the City’s code on ‘Food Establishments.’ Recent inspections of the building were conducted on July 18, May 17, and Sept. 16, 2021. 

The supermarket officially opened on Oct. 23, 2020. 

Acme’s cost for reinspection is $315, according to the sign. Those who occupy the building, or remove or damage the notice sign, are subject to arrest by the Philadelphia Police Department and if convicted, a fine of up to $300 and possible imprisonment.

The City’s Department of Health responded to a Daily Pennsylvanian inquiry with a link to the inspection report. Acme has not responded to a request for comment.