Failure to Date and Store Opened Food Items per Food Safety Standards
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to professional standards of food safety by not properly dating and storing food items in all three kitchenettes observed. Specifically, surveyors found multiple opened containers of thickened liquids on Unit 6 that were not dated to indicate when they had been opened, despite manufacturer instructions requiring use or disposal within a specified number of days after opening. The lack of date marking made it impossible for staff to determine when the containers should be discarded, as required by both the FDA Food Code and manufacturer guidelines. Interviews with staff confirmed that there was no system in place to ensure opened food and drink items were dated. A CNA acknowledged that opened items should be dated so staff know when to discard them, but was unable to determine when the thickened liquid container had been opened. The Food Service Director also confirmed that items should be dated upon opening and discarded according to manufacturer instructions, indicating a failure in following established food safety protocols.