Unpalatable and Unattractive Food Served to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food that was palatable, attractive, and served at a safe and appetizing temperature for multiple residents requiring specialized diets, including pureed and mechanical soft textures. Observations revealed that pureed ham was microwaved in paper bowls, resulting in a dry, crusty, and grayish appearance before being served to several residents. Staff and the administrator acknowledged that the pureed food did not look appetizing after microwaving. Additionally, for a resident on a mechanical soft diet, ham was ground and mixed with mayonnaise due to the lack of available gravy, then microwaved and served with baked beans and applesauce. The resident later reported that the meal was insufficient and unappetizing. Other residents also received microwaved ham that appeared dry and burnt around the edges. Multiple residents expressed dissatisfaction with the quality and appearance of their meals, describing the food as "awful," "messed up," and "no good." Staff interviews confirmed challenges in preparing and serving food for all residents at the appropriate temperature and quality, citing poor planning and inadequate equipment. Facility policy requires nursing personnel or feeding assistants to inspect food trays to ensure meals are correct, palatable, attractive, and served at a safe and appetizing temperature, which was not met in these instances.