Improper Food Storage and Inadequate Use of Hair Restraints in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple instances of improper food storage in the facility's kitchen. Specifically, there were opened and undated packages of ham lunch meat and yellow cheese, as well as undated halved tomatoes wrapped in plastic. Additionally, several sandwiches (ham, bologna, and peanut butter) were individually packaged in plastic bags without any labels or dates. The Food Service Director confirmed that these items were not labeled or dated as required by facility policy, which mandates that all foods stored in the refrigerator or freezer be covered, labeled, and dated with a use-by date. Further observations revealed that kitchen staff did not consistently use appropriate hair restraints. One dietary assistant was seen wearing a hat, but her long braided ponytail was not contained within the hat. Another staff member entered the kitchen without a hair net and was also observed with a short beard but no beard protector. Both staff members confirmed during interviews that they were not using the required hair or beard restraints while in the kitchen.