Failure to Serve Palatable Meals at Safe Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve meals that were palatable and at appetizing temperatures on two units, as evidenced by observations, interviews, and meal test tray results. According to the facility's policy, hot foods should be maintained at or above 135°F and cold foods at or below 41°F. During a Resident Council Meeting, half of the participating residents reported that breakfast and lunch were often served cold and that there were not enough staff to pass trays. Test trays conducted on both the Second and Third Floor Units revealed that several hot food items, such as scrambled eggs, waffles, and sausage, were served at temperatures below the required threshold and were described as lukewarm or cold and lacking flavor. Cold items, such as milk and orange juice, were also served above the required cold temperature, with some items being lukewarm to taste. Interviews with dietary staff and the Food Service Director (FSD) confirmed that the food temperatures were not within the appropriate ranges and did not meet expectations for palatability. The FSD acknowledged that one column of the plate warmer had not been working for some time, requiring staff to rotate hot plates and cover them with a pot as a workaround. The FSD stated that the kitchen needed a new plate warmer and that all staff were aware of the issue. These actions and inactions led to the deficiency in serving meals at safe and appetizing temperatures.