Food Safety and Sanitation Deficiencies in Kitchen Operations
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen related to food safety and sanitation. Undated pepperoni slices and pizza crust were found in the meat freezer, and an expired gallon of milk was stored in the walk-in freezer, despite posted instructions requiring all food items to be labeled and dated. These findings were confirmed by the Food Services Director, who acknowledged that the items should not have been stored in the freezers. Additionally, a leak under the kitchen sink resulted in water pooling on the floor near the trayline area and stove. Staff reported this issue had been ongoing, but the Food Services Director was unaware of the problem at the time of the survey. Further deficiencies were noted in staff hygiene and use of protective equipment. During trayline service, a staff member picked up a food item from the floor with gloved hands and then returned to handle a clean utensil without performing hand hygiene, which the staff member admitted. Observations also revealed that multiple staff, including a CNA, the Food Services Director, and a Dietary Aide, were either not wearing hair restraints or were wearing them improperly while in the kitchen. These lapses were verified with the Food Services Director and were not in accordance with the facility's infection control policies.