Failure to Serve Hot Foods at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve a supper meal at an appetizing and safe temperature, as required by its food temperature policy. During an observation, a test tray of BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, and spinach was served with temperatures below the minimum standard of 135°F: the chicken measured 133.6°F, the mashed potatoes 126.2°F, and the spinach 90.3°F. The chicken and mashed potatoes were warm to taste, while the spinach was cold. This issue was identified after a resident had previously voiced a grievance about cold food, which was documented and marked as resolved. The dietary aide reported that the steam table had been shut off for about two minutes prior to the sample tray being received. The deficiency had the potential to affect 71 residents on a regular diet with regular textured foods. No further information was provided by the administrator at the time of the sample tray testing, and the facility's policy required hot foods to be held at a minimum of 135°F.