Improper Food Storage and Handling Practices Identified in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen regarding the storage, preparation, and handling of food items. During inspections, dented cans of food were found co-mingled with non-dented cans on storage racks, including cans of beans, fruit cocktail, and banana pudding. The Dietary Manager (DM) confirmed these cans were dented and acknowledged they should have been stored separately. The DM also stated that it was his responsibility to check for dented cans, but he had not done so before the surveyors arrived. Further observations revealed improper storage of frozen and dry food items. In the freezers, open and undated boxes containing breakfast sausage patties and garlic bread were found with their packaging ripped or not properly sealed, exposing the food to the elements. In the dry storage area, an opened and undated carton of thickened liquid and an opened, undated bag of strawberry gelatin mix were found. The DM was unable to determine when these items were opened and acknowledged that such practices could affect food quality and safety. Interviews with the DM and the Administrator confirmed that staff were expected to follow food storage and preparation policies, including labeling and dating all products. However, the DM admitted that staff had not paid attention to these requirements, and the Administrator noted there was no policy for storing dented cans. The facility's own policy and the FDA Food Code require proper labeling, dating, and separation of compromised food items, but these standards were not met during the survey.