Failure to Serve Food at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was served at a palatable and appetizing temperature for three residents on the North shore unit, all of whom had intact cognition and were able to feed themselves after staff set up their trays. Multiple residents reported that their food was not always hot, with specific complaints about meat and potatoes being served lukewarm or cold. During meal service, food was observed being plated in the main kitchen, placed on a plate warmer, and then transported to the unit. Upon arrival and distribution, food temperatures were measured and found to be below the facility's required holding temperature of 140°F, with items such as hamburger, chicken, potatoes, and cauliflower ranging from 118°F to 131°F. Residents confirmed that their meals were often only lukewarm or cold, and a dietary aide acknowledged the food was not at the expected temperature. The dietary manager stated that the expectation was for hot food to be held at 140°F or higher, as outlined in the facility's policy. The deficient practice was observed to have the potential to affect all 21 residents on the unit.