Improper Food Storage, Labeling, and Ice Machine Sanitation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper storage, labeling, and handling of food items in accordance with professional standards and its own policies. Surveyors observed multiple instances where frozen foods, including chocolate meringue pies, chicken, ground beef, ribs, and hams, were stored directly on the floor of freezers and refrigerators, rather than on shelves to allow for proper air circulation. Additionally, bins containing corn meal, sugar, and flour were found to be undated and unlabeled. Expired food items, such as hot dogs, Salisbury steaks, and Tater Kegs, were present in the freezers, and several food items exhibited a thick build-up of ice crystals. A bag of lettuce was also found stored on the floor of a refrigerator. These practices were inconsistent with the facility's food storage policy, which requires all products to be dated upon receipt and preparation, and for expired or outdated food to be discarded. Further deficiencies were identified in the maintenance and cleanliness of the ice machine. A pink/brown substance, identified by the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) as likely mildew, was observed along the inside of the ice machine's plastic dispenser. The CDM confirmed the presence of residue after wiping the area with a paper towel. Interviews with facility staff revealed uncertainty regarding responsibility for cleaning the ice machine, with the Maintenance Supervisor indicating that the task would be assigned to a floor technician. The CDM also acknowledged that food items and storage bins should be labeled and dated, and that food should not be stored on the floor of freezers or refrigerators.