Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Handling and Storage Practices
Penalty
Summary
Dietary staff failed to maintain clean and sanitary conditions in the kitchen, as evidenced by multiple observations of unclean equipment and improper food storage. During kitchen tours, surveyors found a large trash barrel with the lid partially off, broken down cardboard boxes blocking freezer access, and a sticky, soiled freezer handle with dried liquid and food crumbs inside. Several food items, including blueberries, chicken/noodles/broth, diced peaches, and dressings, were found unlabeled and undated. Bulk containers of sugar and flour were improperly labeled or undated, and a scoop was stored with its handle in direct contact with sugar. Additionally, frying pans were observed to be blackened, charred, and missing Teflon coating. Ground meat was left thawing in a sink without running water, contrary to policy, and the same unsanitary conditions persisted on follow-up visits. During meal service, staff were observed handling food and utensils in ways that could lead to contamination. One cook touched the inside of plates with bare hands while plating food, and an aide touched the end of a straw before inserting it into a milk carton for a resident. Another staff member failed to perform hand hygiene after picking up plastic lids from the floor and resumed meal tray preparation. Additionally, a staff member used bare hands to retrieve tongs from a pan of barbeque pork steaks, with the tongs slipping into the food multiple times, and no gloves or extra utensils were available. These actions were inconsistent with facility policies and professional standards for food safety and hygiene.