Unpalatable and Unattractive Food Served to Residents
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to ensure food and drink were palatable, attractive, and served at a safe and appetizing temperature for residents. Specifically, a cognitively intact resident reported that meals were often inedible, unidentifiable, and did not match the items listed on the meal ticket. The resident described being served a 'mystery meat' patty with gravy, overcooked vegetables, and stale bread for an alternate meal. The resident also noted inconsistencies in side dishes, such as receiving macaroni salad instead of coleslaw, and a lack of fresh fruit or meal choices. Observation confirmed that the resident's meal tray did not match the meal ticket and the food was left uneaten. Additionally, test trays on two separate units were evaluated by surveyors and found to be unpalatable. On one unit, the roast pork was covered in salty gravy, the sweet potato was mushy and waterlogged, and the cauliflower was overcooked and easily mashed. On the other unit, the roast pork was overcooked and dry, the sweet potato lacked flavor, and the cauliflower was again overcooked and mushy. In both cases, none of the food items were considered palatable, indicating a systemic issue with food quality and meal preparation.