Target Center’s annual inspection revealed rodent droppings and mold in concession areas. Similar issues were found at Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium in 2024.
MINNEAPOLIS — As fans packed Target Center for Thursday’s Game 2 of the Timberwolves’ playoff matchup against the Golden State Warriors, details from a recent routine food safety inspection raised a few concerns.
The City of Minneapolis conducted a food safety inspection of Target Center on February 12, uncovering a lengthy list of violations. Dozens of issues were documented throughout the arena’s concession stands and food prep areas, ranging from the physical condition of the facilities to protecting food from contamination.
“I see trends in risky food safety behaviors – meaning not isolated to one service area and not isolated to one year routine inspection,” said Amy Johnston, a food safety educator with the University of Minnesota Extension, who reviewed the city’s inspection reports.
Among the more concerning discoveries, four concession locations were cited after the inspector found mouse droppings on the floors along the walls, indicating the presence of rodents in food areas. Multiple locations were also cited for the presence of biofilm or mold in ice machines and a soda gun holder, according to inspection records obtained from the city.
Proper handwashing and access to handwashing sinks were also a common theme that resulted in several citations throughout the arena. Several concession locations were cited for handwashing sinks that were either physically obstructed, missing signage, not stocked with soap, or being used for other purposes such as storage or discarding ice. The inspector noted that a bar location didn’t have a handwashing sink available, despite employees handling cocktails and garnishes. One employee at a pizza location was observed going directly from washing dishes to handling food without having washed their hands.
“An inspection is a snapshot of a brief period of a food establishment. It only captures the actions of the staff that are there at that time – so we don’t know if all staff do not understand or follow safe food handling practices, or is it isolated to a few individuals,” Johnston said, noting that employees who might be new or have received inadequate training may be behind some of the violations.
Even premium locations within the arena were cited for violations. The Lexus Courtside Club and the Chairman’s Club were both dinged for a lack of sneeze guards around self-serve food items. They were also cited for a lack of proper time and temperature controls in place for foods that are required to be kept hot or cold. The kitchen used to service the suites was cited for holding pork sliders at a temperature of 128 degrees, below the required 135-degree minimum needed to prevent the growth of pathogens.
“There is an unfair burden that is placed on consumers when it comes to food safety. Consumers need to be aware of what is happening around them and make a decision to eat or not eat at a certain establishment.” Johnston said.
Target Center was not alone in seeing issues. Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium were also listed as having violations in past years.
Target Field’s most recent routine inspection from July 2024 saw violations with food temperatures, food stored on the floor, and hand sinks that did not work. U.S. Bank Stadium’s September 2024 inspection found rodent droppings, buffets with no sneeze guards, and mold buildup inside an ice machine.
The Minneapolis Health Department told KARE 11 that stadiums and arenas are inspected annually to ensure that food safety practices are being followed. Additional inspections happen during big events, like the U.S Gymnastics Trials and Big 10 Tournament.
If violations are found, the Minneapolis Health Department works with the vendor to educate them and resolve any food safety issues.
Aramark Sports + Entertainment provides food to U.S. Bank Stadium and released the following statement.
“Food safety is a top priority for Aramark Sports + Entertainment. We maintain the highest standards in our food production and safety processes, ensuring the integrity of food from time of delivery to service at U.S. Bank Stadium. Our on-site Safety Manager, a former health inspector for the state of Minnesota, oversees our safety protocols and supports our team with continuous training to keep employees well-informed on the latest guidelines. We also have an extensive repair and maintenance program to keep our equipment and facilities in optimal condition. We are committed to providing a safe and positive hospitality experience for every guest who visits U.S. Bank Stadium.”
Target Center works with Levy Restaurants to provide food service throughout the arena and provided the following statement on the city’s February findings.
“Food safety and sanitation are top priorities for Levy, and we work closely with the Minneapolis Health Department and third-party experts to ensure Target Center is best in class. During a February health inspection, all food outlets were audited, and Target Center received an overall rating of 98.5 out of 100. With perfection as our goal, we proactively invited the Health Department back in March to demonstrate that all issues identified were successfully addressed. We’re committed to serving fans with the highest-quality food and beverage experience.”
