Unsanitary Food Storage and Handling Practices Identified
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the food and nutrition services department and a resident pantry area, which could lead to food contamination and microbial growth. Specifically, there was a three-quarter inch hole in the wall grout near the handwashing sink, and a build-up of dirt and debris was found along the perimeter of the kitchen and under the tray line counter area. These unsanitary conditions were directly observed during the initial tour with the foodservice director. Additionally, in the resident pantry area on the West Nursing Unit, two four-ounce containers of applesauce, two four-ounce containers of canned pears, and two covered eight-ounce glasses of milk were found without dates indicating when they were available for use. The food service director confirmed that food items were required to be dated to ensure quality and food safety. These findings demonstrate a failure to follow safe food storage and handling practices as required by professional standards and facility policy.