Deficient Food Storage, Labeling, and Dishwashing Documentation
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple deficiencies in food storage and sanitation practices within the facility's dietary department. Open food items, including graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and quick rise soft roll mix, were found undated and uncovered. Additionally, a bag of muffin mix was found with an open date several months prior. During inspection of the refrigerator, a full pan of frozen shredded pork was observed thawing on a shelf above eggs, contrary to facility policy and professional standards for preventing cross-contamination. The Dietary Manager confirmed these practices did not meet expectations for food storage and dating. A review of the facility's dishwasher temperature and sanitization chemical strip test log revealed significant gaps in documentation, with numerous days over a three-month period lacking records of required twice-daily checks. Although an observed test of the dishwasher showed appropriate temperatures and chemical levels, the lack of consistent monitoring and documentation was acknowledged by both the Dietary Manager and the Administrator. Facility policies reviewed required proper thawing of meats, dating and labeling of opened foods, and daily monitoring of dish machine sanitization, all of which were not consistently followed.