Health Department Shuts Down Sparks Avenue Cumberland Farms Kitchen

The Nantucket Health Department has closed the kitchen of the Cumberland Farms on Sparks Avenue due to inadequate ventilation leading to a buildup of grease on the equipment, walls, and ceiling.

“The Sparks Ave [Cumberland Farms] had been using self-venting appliances, which had developed a grease issue that concerned both Health and Fire. New ventilation systems will be implemented before returning to full service, with oversight from both Health and [the Nantucket Fire Department],” interim Health Director Jerico Mele said.

The violation was first noted as part of a routine inspection on July 8th, and Cumberland Farms was given 30 days to address the problem. A re-inspection conducted on August 5th found that the kitchen was still out of compliance because of the grease. After the inspection, the Nantucket Health Department issued a cease and desist order requiring the store to temporarily close its kitchen until the problem can be addressed. Once the store’s ventilation has been improved, the Nantucket Health Department will have to conduct another inspection before allowing Cumberland Farms to resume operations.

Cumberland Farms can still use its oven to reheat ready-to-eat meals while the kitchen is closed, but many popular items - including pizza and hot dogs - are now absent.