Deficient Food Storage and Preparation Practices Identified
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed several deficiencies in the facility's kitchen related to food storage and preparation practices. Five boxes of tea bags were found in the dry storage area without any date or label, contrary to facility policy requiring all food items to be labeled with received and use-by dates. An opened container of Clorox disinfecting wipes was also found stored in the dry storage area, which the Dietary Service Supervisor acknowledged should have been kept in a designated chemical storage room to prevent possible cross contamination with food items. Additionally, three gallons of rainbow sherbet were found in a freezer without any label or open date, which the supervisor stated was necessary to track expiration and reduce the risk of cross contamination. Further, a dietary aide was observed in the food preparation area without wearing a hair covering while dispensing hot water, despite facility policy requiring all kitchen staff to wear hair nets or head coverings to prevent hair from contaminating food. The facility's policies and procedures reviewed by surveyors confirmed the requirements for proper dating and labeling of food, separation of chemicals from food storage, and use of hair coverings in food preparation areas. These observations were made during interviews and concurrent walkthroughs with the Dietary Service Supervisor and dietary staff.