Shut down by county health inspectors after they found evidence of rodent and cockroach infestations, the Whole Foods in Cupertino remains shuttered two months later.
The Santa Clara County health department had ordered a temporary closure of the grocery store at 20955 Stevens Creek Blvd. in April after evidence of the infestations was found in its deli, bakery, and hot food sections.
The store, one of the largest Whole Foods locations in the area, has remained closed as it undergoes building maintenance and repairs and a “refreshing” of certain departments, according to a spokesperson.
“Our goal is to reopen as quickly as possible, however the highest priority for Whole Foods Market is to fully address and remedy the issue,” the Whole Foods spokesperson wrote in a statement to this news organization.
In order to re-open, Whole Foods must submit documentation indicating the completion of cleaning, pest control treatment, and other needed corrective actions to the county health department. The store then must reach out to the department for a follow-up inspection to ensure full compliance with health codes.
“DEH remains committed to prompt inspections, transparent communication, and continuous education to help all operators comply with food safety laws and regulations,” the county health department stated.
Once updates are completed, Whole Foods said it plans to invite the county health department back for a re-inspection, the company spokesperson said.
Naval Garg, a Cupertino resident who lives near the closed store and used to shop there frequently, said his family now goes to Trader Joe’s to buy organic food.
Amanda Bowles, another resident, said she used to go to Whole Foods to find specialty items.
“It’s really too bad what happened,” she said. “It’s disappointing of course, but I’m glad that they’re doing something to clean it up. Hopefully they’ll get their ducks in a row.”