Unsanitary Kitchen Equipment and Improper Storage of Chemicals
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that kitchen equipment, including large tray pans, plate storage containers, stainless racks, plastic pitchers, plastic containers for utensils, and baking pans, had brownish to blackish discoloration and rusty spots. These unsanitary conditions were verified by both the cook and the certified dietary supervisor during multiple observations. The facility's policy requires all kitchen equipment and utensils to be kept clean, maintained in good repair, and free from corrosion, but these standards were not met. Additionally, dishwashing chemicals and garbage containers were found stored beside food items such as flour, pancake flour, mashed potatoes flour, and near utensils and pitchers used for residents. Both the cook and the registered dietitian acknowledged that these chemicals and garbage containers should not have been stored in these locations, as per facility policy, which mandates that poisonous and toxic materials be stored away from food service areas and on shelves used for no other purpose.