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November 19, 2025

Why Did the Health Dept. Dump Bleach Into Food at a Popular Taco Stand?

City Cast Denver

Why Did the Health Dept. Dump Bleach Into Food at a Popular Taco Stand?

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In a video that went viral on Monday, two people wearing City of Denver uniforms can be seen at a roadside taco stand dumping bleach into big jugs of agua frescas, radishes and pickled onions. The video attracted tens of thousands of likes, shares, and outraged comments. But what’s the real story behind the shocking imagery? Host Bree Davies talks to Mario Martinez, who documents and promotes Denver’s Mexican food scene on Instagram (now as @AnunciosDenver) and then Danica Lee, the longtime director of the Public Health Investigations Division of the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment.  

Danica asked that we share this recent video that her office made with basic food safety tips. Westword reported on the food safety regulations around al pastor a few years ago. 

For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.

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What do you think about the viral bleach video? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418

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