Improper Preparation of Pureed Foods Using Water Instead of Approved Liquids
Penalty
Summary
Cook E failed to prepare pureed lunch meals according to the facility's established recipes and policies. During meal preparation, Cook E added water without measuring to both the scalloped potatoes and cornbread while blending, instead of using the specified liquids such as milk, broth, or juice as outlined in the recipes. The recipes and the facility's pureed diet policy explicitly state that water should not be used when thinning pureed foods, as it can affect the nutrition, flavor, and palatability of the meal. Cook E stated she was unaware that water was not to be used and had not been instructed otherwise. Observation and interviews confirmed that the dietary manager and staff are responsible for reviewing recipes prior to meal preparation, and that the use of water in pureed foods is not permitted because it diminishes flavor. The dietary manager reiterated that only broth, juice, or other specified liquids should be used. The deficiency was identified during a review of the kitchen's food and nutrition services, specifically in the preparation of pureed meals for residents requiring this diet consistency.