Pest Infestation Observed in Kitchen Food Storage Area
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain food safety and sanitation practices in the kitchen, as evidenced by the presence of pests in the dry food storage pantry. During an observation in the kitchen's dry food storage room, a roach, spiders, and ants were found on the floor, and spiderwebs were seen on metal carts. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that pests should not be present in the dry food storage room and acknowledged that their presence could lead to contamination of food. Further interviews with the Dietary Supervisor and the Registered Dietician confirmed that the expectation was for the kitchen to be free of pests and that staff should report any pest sightings. Both staff members stated that pests could contaminate food, potentially making residents sick. Review of facility policies indicated that all food storage and service areas should be kept clean and free from insects, rodents, and other sources of contamination, in accordance with the 2022 Federal Food Code and facility procedures.