Unsanitary Food Storage and Kitchen Conditions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to follow safe and sanitary food preparation and storage practices in the kitchen. Specifically, an open box of breakfast patties was found exposed to air in the walk-in freezer, which the Dietary Manager acknowledged could result in cross-contamination and food deterioration. Facility policy requires all foods to be stored wrapped or in covered containers to prevent cross-contamination, but this was not followed in this instance. Additionally, black wet debris was found where the metal walls met the flooring on all four sides of the walk-in refrigerator. The Dietary Manager confirmed the presence of this debris and stated it should not be present, as it poses a risk for cross-contamination with food stored in the refrigerator. Facility policy mandates that the kitchen, including floors and walls, be maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, and that staff are knowledgeable in proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures to prevent cross-contamination.