Failure to Properly Store, Label, and Date Food Items in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen regarding the storage, labeling, and dating of food items. An opened box of powdered sugar was found in the dry goods pantry with the inner plastic bag cut open and not securely closed, nor was it placed in a sealed, labeled, and dated container. In the refrigerator, a clear plastic container with a red sauce and another with mixed vegetables (green beans, corn, and potatoes) were found without any labels or dates. Staff interviews confirmed that the red sauce was recently placed in the refrigerator, but the mixed vegetables' storage duration was unknown. Both items were discarded after discovery due to improper labeling and dating. Further inspection of the freezer revealed two plastic bags containing meat—one with an unknown type of meat and another with what appeared to be chicken—both covered in ice particles and lacking labels and dates. Staff interviews indicated that food items should be labeled and dated before being placed in storage, and that the presence of ice on meat could indicate freezer burn and improper storage duration. Staff acknowledged their responsibility for proper food storage, with the dietary manager (DM) ultimately accountable for ensuring compliance. The facility's policy requires all opened food packages to be stored in airtight containers or bags, accurately labeled with the item and date opened, and all foods in the refrigerator and freezer to be covered, labeled, and dated. The observed deficiencies in food storage, labeling, and dating were confirmed by staff and management interviews, as well as a review of facility policy, but no specific residents or patient conditions were mentioned in relation to the deficiency.