Failure to Serve Food at Safe and Palatable Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food and drink were palatable, attractive, and served at safe and appetizing temperatures. Multiple residents reported receiving cold food, including cold toast, coffee, eggs, and meat that was sometimes raw. One resident stated that he remained hungry after meals due to insufficient food portions. Direct temperature checks conducted by surveyors and the Dietary Director revealed that hot foods such as chicken nuggets and French fries were served below the recommended palatable temperature of 140°F, with recorded temperatures as low as 116.0°F and 96.2°F, respectively. Cold food items, such as coleslaw, were found to be served at 57.1°F, exceeding the safe maximum of 45°F for cold foods. Observations indicated that the coleslaw was not promptly removed from plates after it was found to be above the safe temperature, and it continued to be delivered to residents. The Dietary Director acknowledged the temperature issues, attributing the heat loss to inadequate plate lids. The Administrator confirmed awareness of resident complaints regarding cold food. Review of the facility's food preparation and serving policy showed a requirement to maintain proper hot and cold temperatures during food service, which was not met during the survey period.