Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Storage and Handling Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in food storage, preparation, and handling practices within the facility's kitchen. Raw hamburger was found thawing in a metal basin on an upper shelf above meal trays, and frozen chicken breasts were placed on a refrigerator shelf above containers of fruit, contrary to facility policy requiring raw meat to be stored on the bottom shelf to prevent cross-contamination. Staff interviews confirmed that staff were aware of the correct procedures but did not consistently follow them, with several staff acknowledging the improper placement of raw meat and the risk of contamination. During meal service, staff were seen using tongs to remove buns from packaging and then using their gloved hands to handle the buns and other items without changing gloves between tasks. Additionally, an ice scoop was repeatedly left in the ice container with the handle in contact with the ice, and staff continued to use the scoop without changing gloves after touching other surfaces. Staff interviews revealed knowledge of proper glove use and ice scoop handling, but these practices were not consistently implemented. The facility's policy requires measures to prevent cross-contamination, including proper storage of raw meat, adherence to hygiene and sanitary practices, and changing gloves between tasks, all of which were not followed during the observations.