Failure to Serve Food and Beverages at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food and beverages were prepared and served at safe and appetizing temperatures, as required by their own policy. Multiple residents who received meals in their rooms and in the assisted dining room reported that their food was not hot when served. Observations confirmed that during meal service, hot foods such as roast pork, mashed potatoes, and corn were plated, covered with plastic film, and placed on an open metal cart without insulation. The cart also contained beverages, including milk, tea, and juice, which were not kept on ice. The last meal tray was delivered over 30 minutes after plating, and temperature checks of a test tray revealed that hot foods were below the required serving temperatures, and milk was above the safe cold temperature. Interviews with dietary staff and the Dietary Manager revealed that food temperatures were not consistently checked at the steam table, and two wells on the steam table were not functioning to keep food warm. The facility lacked insulated plate covers, and the timing of room tray delivery depended on staff availability. The Dietary Manager and Administrator both acknowledged that food and beverages should be served at proper temperatures, but the observed practices and equipment issues led to food being served at temperatures that did not meet policy or safety standards.