Improper Food Storage and Labeling in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple instances of improper food storage in the facility's kitchen, including perishable items kept past their labeled use-by dates and unlabeled prepared beverages in the walk-in refrigerator. Specifically, a container of chicken noodle, rice prep, and sauerkraut were found with use-by or expiration dates that had already passed. Additionally, two trays containing a total of 28 cups of milk and 6 cups of apple juice were found without any labeling or dating. The Dietary Manager confirmed that these items should not have remained in the refrigerator past their use-by dates and that all prepared beverages should be labeled to maintain freshness and avoid confusion. Further inspection of the walk-in freezer revealed an unlabeled, undiscernible piece of meat wrapped in plastic, which was dark brown and had layers of ice under the wrapping, indicating freezer burn. The Dietary Manager acknowledged that the item appeared to be a ham with freezer burn and stated that such items should be discarded before reaching that condition. The Director of Nursing Services also stated that foods should be discarded in a timely manner to ensure food safety and that freezer items should be free from freezer burn.