Failure to Clean Deep Fryer After Use
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain proper sanitation standards in the kitchen, specifically regarding the cleaning of the deep fryer. On multiple occasions throughout the day, the deep fryer and its baskets were found to contain crumbs, grease, and food residue from previous use. The pan underneath the fryer was also observed to be dirty, with visible crumbs and grease. Despite being used the previous evening, the fryer and its components remained uncleaned after two subsequent meals had been served. Interviews with the Dietary Manager (DM) confirmed that the fryer should have been cleaned after each use and that all kitchen staff were responsible for ensuring the cleanliness of kitchen appliances. Further interviews with the Registered Dietitian (RD) and the DM emphasized the importance of cleaning kitchen equipment daily to prevent contamination and foodborne illness. The facility's own policy on General Kitchen Sanitation, dated 2018, requires all multi-use utensils and food-contact surfaces to be cleaned and sanitized after use. The failure to clean the deep fryer as required by both facility policy and professional standards was directly observed and acknowledged by staff, but no corrective action was taken prior to or during the survey observations.