Deficient Food Storage, Labeling, and Staff Attire Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple deficiencies in food storage and preparation practices within the facility. During an initial kitchen tour, a gallon of milk with a best by date that had already passed was found stored with milk intended for consumption. The Certified Dietary Manager acknowledged the issue and separated the expired milk only after it was pointed out. Additionally, in the nourishment rooms, numerous individually wrapped saltine and graham crackers were found stored in plastic bags and containers without any labeling or expiration dates. These items were not dated or labeled either in the nourishment rooms or in the boxes in which they arrived, as confirmed by staff interviews. Further observations revealed that a dietary aide was preparing food and wrapping silverware on the serving line without wearing a beard net, in violation of facility policy. The Certified Dietary Manager confirmed the lack of proper attire. Facility policies require that all food storage areas be neat, arranged for easy identification, and date marked as appropriate, and that staff attire includes proper hair and facial hair restraints. These requirements were not met during the survey, as evidenced by the observations and staff acknowledgments.