Failure to Serve Palatable and Hot Food to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve food that was palatable and at a hot, appetizing temperature for three of five residents reviewed for food palatability. All three residents were cognitively intact, as indicated by their BIMS scores, and reported dissatisfaction with the food, specifically noting that it lacked flavor, was not hot enough, and in some cases, was difficult to eat due to its hardness. One resident reported having to soak toast in milk or coffee because it was too hard, and another stated that meals eaten in their room were not always hot or tasty. A test tray was requested and observed during a breakfast meal service. Staff monitored food temperatures on the tray line, which were within acceptable ranges before leaving the kitchen. However, the trays were transported in an enclosed cart without a heating element, and by the time the food was served, temperatures had dropped significantly. Scrambled eggs were measured at 118°F and were barely warm, toast was 80°F and very hard, and bacon was also barely warm. The Dietary Manager confirmed these findings and stated that the food should have been hot when served. Additionally, the Administrator reported that the facility did not have a policy related to food palatability.