Improper Storage and Labeling of Fresh Fruit in Dietary Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that fresh fruits were stored properly in accordance with professional standards and facility policy. During an observation in the walk-in refrigerator, surveyors found an open container with half a cantaloupe and half a honeydew melon. The cantaloupe had a date written on its skin, and the honeydew melon was in a plastic bag with a date, but the container was only labeled with a general 'fresh fruit' date and an expiration date. The cook confirmed that each fruit should have both an open date and a use-by date to ensure freshness and prevent serving expired food. Interviews with the dietary supervisor, infection preventionist nurse, and administrator all confirmed that open and use-by dates are required for perishable food items to prevent foodborne illness and gastrointestinal infections. A review of the facility's policy indicated that all newly opened food items must be labeled with an open date and use-by date, and all prepared foods must be covered, labeled, and dated. The observed failure to properly label and store the fresh fruit was not in compliance with these requirements.