Deficient Food Storage and Labeling Practices in Kitchen and Dry Storage
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain safe and sanitary food storage practices in the kitchen. Specifically, leftover food from outside the facility, including beef, chicken, macaroni salad, and rice, was found in the kitchen refrigerator in unmarked to-go boxes. These items were not labeled or dated and were stored alongside food intended for residents. The Lead Cook confirmed that all food items in the kitchen refrigerator should be labeled with the date received, opened, and used by date, and that food from outside the facility should not be stored in the kitchen refrigerator for infection control purposes. Further observations in the dry storage area revealed multiple food items, such as an open box of chocolate powder, unopened boxes of thickened lemon-flavored water, a bag of hotdog buns, and cans of chocolate pudding, that were not labeled with delivery, opened, or used by dates. Additionally, an opened gallon of teriyaki sauce with a use-by date that had already passed was found on the rack. The Dietary Supervisor acknowledged that all food items should be properly labeled and expired items discarded, in accordance with facility policy. Review of facility policies confirmed requirements for labeling, dating, and discarding expired or partially eaten food, which were not followed in these instances.