Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Handling and Storage Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in food handling practices within the facility's kitchen. Two can openers were found to be dirty, with visible food residue and sticky gunk, including remnants of tomato sauce. Staff interviews confirmed that the can openers were not cleaned after use, contrary to facility policy, which requires sanitization between uses. Additionally, two trays of apple bar were observed on a cooling rack in the walk-in refrigerator without being fully covered, as required by the facility's food storage policy. Staff acknowledged that the trays should have been properly sealed to prevent contamination. Further inspection revealed a food tray with a crack exposing rusted metal, which was confirmed by both the Dietary Director and a dietary aide. Facility policy mandates that chipped or cracked service ware be discarded to maintain a sanitary environment. Staff interviews reiterated the importance of covering food properly and discarding compromised trays to prevent contamination and ensure safety. Review of relevant facility policies confirmed that these practices were not followed as required.