Food inspectors have been busy over the last two weeks. 

Pinal County Environmental Health Department inspectors visited 13 food purveyors in Maricopa between Dec. 14 and Dec. 26. 

The inspectors started off Dec. 16 at Pima Butte Elementary School and returned Dec. 18 to inspect Sprouts Farmers Market, its deli and sushi bar. 

The next day, the inspectors visited Wetzel’s Pretzels for the first time since it opened Nov. 18, Carl’s Jr., MOD Pizza and Heritage Academy. 

They returned to Maricopa again yesterday, evaluating Chipotle, Firehouse Subs, Starbucks at the Maricopa Station, Wendy’s and Wingstop. 

Not a single violation was found at any of the 13 locations, which were all rated “excellent.” 

What do the ratings mean?      

Excellent: All priority standards are observed as compliant.              

Satisfactory: One or more priority standards is out of compliance. All priority standards are corrected at the time of inspection.                 

Needs improvement: One or more priority standards is out of compliance. At least one violation is not corrected at the time of inspection. When violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the department during a follow-up inspection, a satisfactory rating will be given.                 

Unacceptable: One or more violations observed are an “imminent health hazard.” Hazards include the misuse of poisonous or toxic materials, onset of an apparent foodborne illness outbreak and unsanitary conditions that may endanger public health. Hazards can stem from fires, floods, electrical or water problems, and sewage backup. When violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the department during a follow-up inspection, a satisfactory rating will be given.