Failure to Maintain Safe and Appetizing Food Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
Facility kitchen staff failed to ensure that food served to residents was maintained at appetizing and palatable temperatures, as required by the Nebraska Food Code. Observations and interviews revealed that hot foods were not held at the required temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and cold foods were not consistently kept at 41 degrees or below. Multiple entries in the facility grievance log documented resident complaints about cold food, unappetizing meal presentation, and dissatisfaction with food temperature and quality. Specific grievances included reports of cold breakfast items, cold food delivered to rooms, and mismatched temperatures of meal components such as hot cucumbers and cold zucchini. Direct observation of meal service showed that food items on a test tray, including meatballs, potatoes, green beans, and hot dog alternates, were served below the required hot holding temperatures, with some items as low as 96.0 degrees Fahrenheit. Pudding, intended to be served cold, was found to be too warm. Staff interviews confirmed that the food was not at appropriate temperatures and did not taste good. The Dietary Service Manager acknowledged that the facility is expected to follow the Nebraska Food Code for food holding temperatures.