Improper Food Storage and Labeling in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple food storage violations during a kitchen tour, including several items in the reach-in cooler that were not labeled or dated, and some with use-by dates that had already passed. Specifically, three opened containers of blackberries were found dried out, not labeled or dated, and covered with a white substance. Two containers of opened blueberries were also dried out, not labeled or dated, and contained mold. Additionally, a container with three hard-boiled eggs was not labeled or dated, and a bowl of white rice was found with a use-by date that was nine days prior to the observation. Interviews with the Dietary Manager revealed that all items were supposed to be labeled and dated before storage, and that kitchen staff were responsible for checking the coolers daily, though this task was not specifically assigned to anyone. The Dietary Manager and the Administrator both acknowledged that failure to follow these procedures could result in residents being served expired or improperly stored food. Facility policy required all food items to be stored in covered containers, labeled, dated, and arranged to prevent cross-contamination, in accordance with FDA Food Code guidelines.