Failure to Provide Palatable and Properly Tempered Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that meals provided to residents were palatable, attractive, and served at safe and appetizing temperatures. Observations during meal service revealed that food items, including chicken, mashed potatoes, and baked beans, were served at temperatures below the facility's required standard of 135 degrees Fahrenheit for hot foods. The chicken was noted to be dry, small in portion size, and unappetizing, while the mashed potatoes had a strong garlic flavor and the baked beans were watery and lacked flavor. Milk was also served at an inappropriate temperature. Multiple residents reported that the food was bland, dry, and not hot enough, and the Dietary Manager confirmed receiving several complaints about the quality and temperature of the food. Further review of resident council minutes indicated ongoing concerns about the quality of meals, specifically mentioning watery mixed vegetables. The Dietary Manager stated that limited seasoning options and reliance on frozen food items contributed to the poor quality and lack of variety in meals. Additionally, some fresh vegetables delivered to the facility were often spoiled and had to be discarded. The facility's own policies require that residents receive nourishing, palatable, well-balanced meals prepared and served at appropriate temperatures, but these standards were not met, as evidenced by direct observation, resident feedback, and staff interviews.