Improper Food Thawing and Insect Trap Placement in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed improper food storage and thawing practices in the facility's kitchen. A package of raw hamburger was found thawing in the refrigerator directly next to a box of lettuce, without being placed in a drip pan and resting directly on the refrigerator rack. Staff interviews revealed that the hamburger was believed to be safe due to being sealed and the lettuce box being closed, but the Dietary Manager later acknowledged that this was not appropriate and could lead to cross contamination. The facility's policy required thawing in a drip-proof container, which was not followed in this instance. Additionally, insect traps were found placed on kitchen counter workspaces, including behind coffee pots during meal service. The Dietary Manager was unaware of the presence of these traps, and the Registered Dietician expressed concern about insect traps being located in food preparation areas. The facility's pest control policy did not address the use of insect traps in the kitchen. These observations indicate a failure to adhere to professional standards for food storage, preparation, and pest control.