Deficient Food Storage, Sanitation, and Staff Hygiene in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen environment and did not store food in accordance with professional standards for food service safety. Observations revealed that food items in both the refrigerator and freezer, such as a 1-gallon bag of chicken nuggets and a tub of mayonnaise, were left open and undated. Additionally, dry food items like a 50-pound bag of pinto beans and a small bag of powdered creamer were found open, undated, and not stored in sealed containers. A scoop was also found stored inside a flour container, contrary to safe food handling practices. Further deficiencies included improper storage and cleanliness of dishware, with plates stored face up, some visibly dirty, and one plate containing paperclips. Clean dishware was not stored facedown as required. Staff were also observed not following hygiene protocols, as one dietary aide with facial hair was not wearing a beard restraint. These failures had the potential to affect all 72 residents residing in the facility.