Deficient Food Storage and Labeling Practices in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
During an observation and interview in the facility's kitchen, several deficiencies in food storage practices were identified. Dry goods such as a bag of powdered thickener and a box of cornstarch were found left open or inadequately sealed, exposing them to air. A large bag of enriched rice was only loosely rolled to close it, and an open box of sugar free syrup was stored on its side, resulting in one bottle leaking syrup onto the cardboard box and the floor. Additionally, two bags of frozen taco meat were found in the freezer without any labels or dates to identify their contents. The Dietary Manager confirmed that these items were not properly sealed or labeled as required by facility policy, which mandates that all dry storage items be dated and opened food items be labeled to maintain an expiration or use by dating system.