From Classrooms to Kitchens: Health Inspectors Make the Rounds

Central Virginia Health District – Recent Inspections

(September 21–29, 2025)

The Central Virginia Health District released its latest round of restaurant and school cafeteria inspections conducted between September 20 and September 29. Most establishments earned strong marks, with more than a dozen receiving perfect scores. A handful, however, were cited for violations requiring corrective action. The full list is below, followed by summaries of the four highest violation reports.

Highlights from the Week’s Top Violations

Colca’s Chicken LLC — Lynchburg (13 Violations)

The Lynchburg location of Colca’s Chicken, inspected on September 29, received 13 violations, the highest in the latest round. Issues ranged from employee health policy gaps and handwashing lapses to improper food storage and equipment malfunction. Raw meats were found stored above ready-to-eat items, and the dishwashing machine was not dispensing sanitizer, forcing staff to sanitize manually until repairs could be made.

Several items, including pico de gallo and boiled eggs, were held above safe temperatures, and unlabeled containers and cleaning chemicals stored near food were also noted. Inspectors required the posting of a consumer advisory for undercooked foods, proper date marking, and improved cooling procedures. The restaurant took corrective steps on-site, discarding questionable items and arranging for equipment repair.

Bojangles #1040 — Timberlake Road, Lynchburg (12 Violations)

The Bojangles on Timberlake Road was cited for 12 violations during a September 23 inspection, primarily tied to sanitation and facility upkeep. Officials found blocked handwashing sinks, soiled “clean” containers, and improper use of utensils between food and non-food tasks. Cleaning buckets contained no sanitizer, and food containers in the cooler were left uncovered.

Inspectors also called for a deep clean of the kitchen, citing grease buildup on walls, ceilings, and under equipment, as well as standing water and mold near the prep sink. A broken light switch in the raw chicken cooler and dirty hood vents above cooking areas rounded out the findings. The manager began immediate cleanup and equipment checks during inspection.

China Wok Take Out LLC — Altavista (12 Violations)

China Wok Take Out in Altavista recorded 12 violations during its September 23 inspection, with issues centered on employee hygiene, damaged equipment, and maintenance. Inspectors observed staff touching trash and boxes with gloved hands and resuming food prep without washing. Several dented and expired cans were discarded, and equipment such as freezer lids, food containers, and cutting boards were too worn for proper sanitization.

Leaking plumbing beneath sinks, grimy gaskets and can openers, and missing ceiling tiles were also noted. Management was directed to install self-closing bathroom doors, replace damaged fixtures, and improve labeling and storage practices. The manager cooperated, cleaning surfaces and replacing several items during the visit.

Express Lane #7 — Appomattox (10 Violations)

Express Lane #7 in Appomattox was cited for 10 violations following a September 25 inspection that revealed problems with temperature control, food storage, and employee health procedures. Inspectors found no verifiable illness reporting policy, moldy cucumbers, and raw bacon stored above ready-to-eat foods. Several items, including mashed potatoes and chili, were held outside safe temperature ranges, and improperly cooled foods were discarded on-site.

The walk-in cooler registered 50°F, well above the 41°F safety threshold, prompting a work order for repair. Inspectors also noted unlabeled cleaning chemicals and multiple undated cooked foods past the allowable seven-day limit. Corrective actions included discarding affected items, labeling containers, and adopting the state’s employee health policy moving forward.