Widespread Kitchen Sanitation and Food Storage Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple sanitation and food safety deficiencies in the facility's kitchen, including an uncovered trash can near clean utensils, food splatter and debris around clean utensil holders, and open containers of food left uncovered. Additional issues included a hooded sweatshirt stored on a food cart, food particles on surfaces where clean plates were held, and dirty equipment such as a microwave and mixer with dried food residue. The kitchen floor was dirty with scattered food debris and a black coating, and the stove had burnt food on the burners. The refrigerator contained uncovered, undated cake, food caked on racks and the bottom, and undated, unlabeled breaded meat. There were also expired and improperly stored food items, such as outdated hamburger and apple slices, undated lunch meats, and an open box of unpasteurized eggs. The freezer had open bags of hamburger patties stored in cardboard boxes. Interviews with dietary staff confirmed the presence of pancake mix residue on the sink, grease on storage shelves, and ongoing issues with nursing staff not labeling opened lunch meats. The dietary manager acknowledged the outdated and improperly sealed food items, as well as the overall lack of cleanliness in the kitchen. A review of the local health department's inspection report indicated previous non-compliance with cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces. Facility policy required proper storage, preparation, and labeling of food, but these standards were not met, affecting the safety and sanitation of food service for all residents.