Alternative Meal Options Lacked Equivalent Nutrition
Penalty
Summary
During a kitchen observation at lunch meal plating, it was noted that alternative food options provided to residents, specifically grilled cheese and peanut butter and jelly (PB&J) sandwiches, were not of similar nutritive value to the main entrée. One resident received a grilled cheese sandwich as an alternative to the main meal, and another had a standing order for a half PB&J sandwich with a cup of soup instead of the main meal. The Registered Dietitian confirmed that these alternatives lacked an additional protein source, such as cottage cheese or yogurt, which would be necessary to make the meal nutritionally equivalent to the main entrée. Review of the facility's recipes showed that the grilled cheese and PB&J sandwiches provided less protein and fewer calories compared to the main meal, which included 4 ounces of chicken and provided over 700 calories and 32 grams of protein.