Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Service Practices
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to follow sanitary food service practices during meal preparation and distribution. The cook was observed preparing food without a beard covering, despite facility policy and orientation requiring the use of hairnets and beard restraints in the kitchen. The cook admitted to not wearing a beard cover, stating he was unaware it was necessary. The Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) confirmed that facial hair coverings are required at all times in the kitchen. During meal service, the cook handled resident bowls and plates with bare hands, with his thumb coming into direct contact with the food surface area. The CDM was also observed scooping pureed bread into a bowl with her thumb touching the food. Additionally, a dietary aide transported uncovered food items, including coleslaw, peach cobbler, and drinks, to multiple residents' rooms. The CDM stated that all food and drinks should be covered during transport and that non-food items should not come into contact with food or food surfaces. Facility policies reviewed indicated that hair and beard coverings must be worn, hands must be washed before contact with food surfaces, bare hand contact with food is prohibited, and food must be covered during transportation and distribution.