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Denver Health Department Defends Bleach Poured on Street Taco Stand’s Food After Viral Video

Officials cite missing permits plus previous violations as justification for using chlorine to prevent resale.

Overview

  • A Denver health inspector was filmed pouring bleach onto meats, salsas, aguas and garnishes at the Taco Tacolorado stand run by a Latino family.
  • Denver’s public health department says the action complied with regulations because the stand lacked required licenses and food‑handling permits and had prior violations.
  • The agency says chlorine was used as a rapid step to prevent repackaging and resale due to vendor interference, no trash container on site, and the volume of food.
  • The vendors, identified in reports as the Barrientos family, dispute receiving prior notices and question whether the inspectors displayed credentials.
  • The TikTok clip by @noelia.d_m drew millions of views and widespread condemnation online, and as of Thursday there has been no announcement of discipline or an outside review.