RE: Health Issues: SHOPRITE (store #413) 1568 CHESTER PIKE, UNIT B1, DELAWARE COUNTY, EDDYSTONE, PA…read more19022
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing out of deep concern and frustration regarding a serious mold infestation at the only market serving our neighborhood. I have made several attempts to address this matter directly with the business, but those efforts have been completely ignored. There has been absolutely no regard for the health and well-being of the community -- especially those of us who suffer from allergies or other health conditions.
The cost of living is already extremely high, and yet we are forced to shop in an environment that is hazardous. I now believe that my own recent illness may have been directly linked to exposure at ShopRite.
I have documented this issue extensively through videos, and I am willing to provide them as evidence. I'm not sure if all the files will attach to this message, but I can provide them upon request or upload them through an alternate method if needed.
I am pleading with your office(s) to take this matter seriously and act swiftly to investigate and hold this business accountable. The community deserves a clean, safe place to buy food and necessities -- not a health hazard disguised as a grocery store.
Since I made several attempts to address this privately and the dangerous issues were disregarded, I publicly went on X to address the Collins family.
Thank you & I hope for a speedy solution for myself & community
"Our family-owned stores have been rooted in the Philadelphia area since 1995. We pride ourselves on our tradition of families serving families. In addition to operating four ShopRite stores that are known for providing fresh, high-quality foods, exceptional customer service and access to local jobs, our family also donates to groups that work to reduce hunger and end violence."
-The Collins Family
These photos and videos were taken at the ShopRite Market location:
1568 CHESTER PIKE, UNIT B1, DELAWARE COUNTY, EDDYSTONE, PA 19022 (e.g., store #413), owned by the Collins family. They show a disturbing and unacceptable level of neglect inside the store's refrigerated food displays.
I have reported this disgraceful sanitation problem to staff multiple times -- and each time, I was ignored. My concerns have clearly fallen on deaf ears.
Unbeknownst, I found mold on your product.
I purchased a product from this location that had mold inside. At first, I thought it might have been a manufacturing defect -- but after seeing the condition of these refrigerators, I now know better:
This is ShopRite negligence, plain and simple.
This is how the Collins family -- owners of not just this store, but three other ShopRite locations -- treat the very communities who keep their business alive.
Deplorable Conditions Include:
Visible mold, grime, and buildup in refrigeration vents and cold-air circulation grills.
Black seals and trim covered in debris -- a clear sign of chronic neglect.
Rust and staining around airflow areas.
Food residue and debris stuck in the vent mesh and underneath units.
Unclean surfaces in direct proximity to perishable, consumable goods.
Why This Is a Serious Health Hazard:
Mold and bacteria are easily airborne and can contaminate nearby foods.
Plastic and metal can host mold if organic material (dust, grime) and moisture are present -- and that's clearly the case here.
Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and serious illness.
Certain molds produce mycotoxins and aflatoxins -- dangerous substances that can make people extremely sick, or worse, DEATH.
The store's neglect is absolutely in violation of health codes and contributing to unsafe food conditions.
Personal Impact:
During the time I continued shopping at this store, I became sick -- and after multiple rounds of antibiotics and medical screenings, I'm starting to question:
"Was I unknowingly exposed to contaminated food or mold spores in your store?"
I have medical documentation to support that I suffered from respiratory illness during this time.
How many others have been affected without realizing it?
To the Collins Family:
You've made public statements claiming to "care about the community."
This says otherwise.
While your own home's fridge units are likely spotless and protected, we are exposed to dangerous conditions that could cost someone their health -- or worse, their life. This is not just unacceptable -- it's shameful.
MEMO TO CUSTOMERS:
Start documenting. Report these stores. Take photos. File complaints. If nothing is done -- EXPOSE THEM.
We deserve clean, safe environments where we shop and feed our families. If the owners won't take action, it's up to us to hold them accountable.
