Deficient Food Storage, Expired Items, and Hand Hygiene in Dietary Services
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple deficiencies in the facility's food storage, preparation, and handling practices. Expired food items, including a half-gallon of buttermilk and three bags of bread, were found in storage past their expiration dates, despite the Dietary Manager's routine checks. Additionally, several opened bags of hamburger buns were left unsealed, exposing them to environmental contaminants and potential pests. Ice scoop holders attached to ice chests were found to be dirty, with residue at the bottom, and the scoops were resting directly on the unclean surfaces. Staff interviews confirmed that cleaning responsibilities for these items were not consistently followed. Dietary staff were also observed failing to adhere to proper hand hygiene protocols. One dietary aide turned off a faucet with bare hands and then handled clean glasses without washing hands. Another aide handled milk cartons, shakes, and condiments, then picked up cups and glasses by the rims without washing hands after touching potentially dirty objects. A third staff member touched a blender motor and then handled clean equipment without washing hands. These actions were in direct violation of the facility's hand washing policy, which requires hand hygiene after contact with dirty equipment or surfaces and before handling clean items.