Failure to Ensure Palatable and Properly Prepared Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that meals were prepared in a manner that preserved or promoted palatability for its residents. During the preparation of a noon meal consisting of turkey, stuffing, mixed vegetables, and a dinner roll, a dietary staff member prepared a gravy by combining chicken base, water, and an unspecified amount of corn starch without following a written recipe. The resulting mixture was water-thin and described as a broth rather than a traditional gravy. The dietary staff member was unable to provide a recipe for the gravy, stating that she had memorized it from experience. Administrative staff observed the meal service and confirmed that the mixture served over the turkey and dressing did not resemble gravy and was not appealing. Additionally, the facility was unable to provide a policy related to food palatability when requested. The lack of adherence to standardized recipes and absence of a relevant policy contributed to the deficiency in meal preparation and presentation.