Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Storage and Labeling Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen regarding safe and sanitary food storage and preparation practices. During an inspection, opened containers of thickened lemon water and almond milk were found to be sticky to the touch, and an opened container of apple juice was not labeled with the date it was opened. Additionally, an opened bottle of brown coloring for gravy was observed with dried dark brown drippings on the side. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that kitchen staff should have wiped containers clean after each use and labeled all opened items with the date to ensure proper food safety and sanitation. Interviews with the Dietary Supervisor and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy requires all food items to be labeled and dated when opened, and that containers should be wiped clean after each use. The policy also states that opened products should be stored in containers with tight-fitting lids and labeled accordingly. The observed failures to follow these procedures had the potential to compromise food safety for residents receiving meals from the kitchen.