Whole Foods Deli and Bakery: A Health Violation Shutdown
Food safety has taken center stage at the Whole Foods store in Cupertino, as its deli and bakery have been forced to close indefinitely due to troubling health violations. Just days after health officials discovered evidence of a rodent infestation — complete with fresh droppings in vital food preparation areas — customers will have to seek their culinary delights elsewhere.
Disturbing Discoveries
On April 7, the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health conducted inspections at the store located at 20955 Stevens Creek Blvd. Their findings were alarming:
- Fresh rodent droppings were observed in multiple locations within the deli, including the preparation areas and equipment storage spaces.
- Snap traps were found tucked away behind and under various pieces of equipment, raising further concern about the severity of the situation.
- In the bakery section, inspectors encountered live cockroaches near the dishwasher and hidden areas, as well as two deceased ones found clinging to a wall behind a dish rack.
These discoveries paint a concerning picture of the state of food safety within the store, compelling health officials to act and ensure that necessary measures are taken to rectify the situation.
Temporary Closure: What You Need to Know
As customers approached the store this past weekend, they encountered empty food display cases and a sign indicating the deli and bakery sections were closed for maintenance work. The store’s management released a statement underscoring their commitment to food safety:
“Food safety is our top priority. We are working to restore services as quickly as possible while ensuring we meet all safety standards."
While the remainder of the Whole Foods store remains open, patrons are left wondering when they might see their beloved deli and bakery return to operation. Staff at the store have been directing inquiries about the situation to company representatives, but as of late Saturday afternoon, there was still no official update on a potential reopening.
A Path Forward
According to the county’s health department, the deli and bakery must remain closed until all signs of infestation are eliminated. This includes thorough cleaning and sanitizing of all contaminated surfaces, addressing contributing factors, and making necessary repairs. Only when these measures are fully implemented will the beloved culinary services be able to reopen their doors.
Whole Foods Cupertino is one of California’s largest stores, having first opened its doors to the public in 2007. It has become a staple for health-conscious shoppers, known for its array of organic produce and gourmet offerings.
Stay Tuned for Updates
As this situation continues to unfold, we will keep you posted on the latest developments regarding the Whole Foods deli and bakery’s status. Remember to prioritize your health and safety when dining out, and always stay informed about the establishments you visit.
This is a developing story—check back for updates.
Originally Published: April 12, 2025 at 4:50 PM PDT.
