Unsanitary Kitchen Conditions and Food Contamination Risk
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain a safe and sanitary kitchen environment. During the initial kitchen tour, white residue was found underneath the sink by the drainage pipe, and white paint remnants were present on the kitchen floor due to a fallen tile. Additionally, there was an area of exposed drywall in the kitchen. These conditions were confirmed during interviews with both the Dietary Supervisor and the Maintenance Supervisor, who acknowledged the presence of residue, paint chips, and exposed drywall. Both supervisors stated that these unsanitary conditions had the potential to contaminate food prepared for residents. The facility's policy and procedure on food safety and storage indicated that food should be stored, prepared, distributed, and served in accordance with professional standards to prevent contamination. The policy defined contamination as the unintended presence of potentially harmful substances, including microorganisms, chemicals, or physical objects, and noted that foodborne illness could result from ingestion of contaminated food or beverages.