Failure to Serve Palatable Meals at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve palatable meals at appetizing and safe temperatures to all residents, as evidenced by direct observation, interviews, and review of facility menus and policies. During breakfast service, initial food temperatures on the steam table were within safe ranges, but by the time trays were delivered to residents, food temperatures had dropped significantly, with items such as cheese omelets and sausage measuring between 106 and 118 degrees Fahrenheit, and milk at 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the facility ran out of oatmeal and spoons during tray line, resulting in the last four residents receiving cold cereal and plastic spoons instead of the planned meal and standard utensils. A taste test confirmed the food was not warm enough and lacked desirable flavor, particularly the pureed omelet, which was described as bland and tasteless. Resident interviews corroborated these findings, with multiple residents reporting that meals were often cold and that the kitchen frequently ran out of food. Review of Resident Council Meeting Minutes further revealed ongoing concerns about repetitive meals and requests for more fresh fruit. The facility's own policy requires best efforts to present hot food hot and cold food cold at point of service, using appropriate equipment and periodic test tray evaluations, but these standards were not met during the observed meal service.