Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni has issued a sharp warning about a growing network of unpermitted roadside food stands selling unrefrigerated meat that could be a ticking time bomb for public health.
These stands—marked by their blue and red tents, grills, and vertical rotisseries—are run by operators from Merced County.
They transport both raw and pre-cooked meat more than two hours away, across the Central Coast, reaching Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Santa Clara counties.
Health experts caution that without proper refrigeration, this food becomes a playground for harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and listeria—culprits behind serious foodborne illnesses.
Past investigations in Merced uncovered grim scenes: unsanitary food prep in garages and warehouses.
Locally, authorities in Monterey County have repeatedly confiscated unsafe food and cooking equipment from unlicensed stands scattered in Pajaro, Royal Oaks, Castroville, North Salinas, Fort Ord, Soledad, and Greenfield.
Most recently, officials seized food and gear from spots near Highway 68, Del Rey Oaks, and 348 San Juan Grade Road in Salinas.
Behind this operation sits an estimated $100,000 monthly cash flow benefiting the ringleaders, while stand workers often receive less than minimum wage.
This underground trade chips away at legitimate restaurants and food trucks that adhere to health codes and inspections.
Pacioni made clear the focus remains on dismantling the criminal network—not prosecuting the individual workers on the stands.
Authorities urge the public to steer clear of these illegal vendors while the probe continues, highlighting that supporting them fuels a risky business that could hurt the community’s health and legal food providers alike.
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