Improper Food Storage and Labeling in Main Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to food safety requirements as evidenced by improper storage, labeling, and dating of food products in the Main Kitchen. During a review of the facility's policy on 'Storage of Refrigerated Foods,' it was noted that employee lunches should not be stored in dietary refrigerators. However, during an observation in the Main Kitchen Back Reach-in Cooler, an opened bottle of Pepsi and an opened bottle of Dr. Pepper were found without any name or date. Additionally, in the Main Kitchen Walk-in Freezer, an opened bag of mixed vegetables and an opened package of sausage patties were observed without any date or label. Further observations in the Main Kitchen Dry Storage revealed an opened bag of corn flake cereal without a label or date. These findings were confirmed during an interview with the Food Service Director, Employee E10, who acknowledged the facility's failure to properly store, label, and date food, which created the potential for foodborne illness. The lack of adherence to professional standards for food service safety was evident in these observations, indicating a deficiency in the facility's food safety practices.
Plan Of Correction
Dietary concerns were addressed immediately during the survey. The DM/designee completed a kitchen audit to address any additional findings. To prevent this from recurring, the Dietary Manager/designee will educate the dietary staff on requirements of F812 and ensuring that the food is stored, labelled, and dated in kitchen pantries, reach-in coolers, and freezers. To monitor and maintain ongoing compliance, the Dietary Manager (DM) will audit the kitchen 3 times weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months to ensure food is stored, labelled, and dated in kitchen pantries, reach-in coolers, and freezers. Negative findings will be addressed. Ad hoc education will be provided as needed. The results of the audits will be forwarded to the facility Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) committee for further review and recommendations.