Failure to Properly Store, Label, and Date Refrigerated Food Items
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly store, label, date, and seal food items in one of the kitchen refrigerators, as observed during a survey. Specific findings included a Ziploc bag of lunchmeat slices, a large Rubbermaid container with a reddish-brown substance, a Rubbermaid container of sliced yellow cheese, and an opened Ziploc bag containing a manufacturer-labeled bag of mozzarella cheese. None of these items were labeled or dated, and some were not properly sealed. The dietary aide present was unable to identify when the items were opened or last used and stated that, without a date, she would discard the food to ensure safety. The dietary aide confirmed receiving orientation training on food handling but was unaware of the specifics regarding these items. The Dietary Manager (DM) acknowledged responsibility for ensuring staff followed facility policy and for checking food storage areas weekly for expired or spoiled foods but could not explain why these items had not been removed. The DM confirmed that all kitchen staff had completed required food preparation and storage training. The facility's policy and the FDA Food Code require all refrigerated foods to be labeled, dated, and tightly sealed, with leftovers used within 48 hours. The Administrator stated that all products should be labeled and dated according to policy and that it was the DM's responsibility to ensure compliance.