Inadequate Nutritional Value in Alternative Meal Options
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide meals of similar nutritive value when residents requested alternative meal options. During observations of lunch meal services, it was noted that grilled cheese sandwiches were prepared for residents as an alternative to the scheduled entree. These sandwiches consisted of two slices of white bread and two slices of orange cheese, providing approximately nine grams of protein. This was significantly lower than the 21 grams of protein provided by the regular entree, which included three ounces of meat. The deficiency was observed in the meals provided to three residents, each with different dietary needs. Resident 9, on a consistent carbohydrate diet, received a grilled cheese sandwich with diet cranberry juice and Italian ice. Resident 62, on a regular chopped meats diet, also received a grilled cheese sandwich. Resident 5, on a regular diet, received a grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of tomato soup. The Kitchen Manager confirmed the protein discrepancy between the grilled cheese sandwiches and the regular entree, acknowledging the lower protein content in the alternative meal choice.