Non-Compliance with Food Storage and Handling Standards
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to store and serve food in accordance with professional standards and its own policies and procedures. During a kitchen inspection, multiple food items were found opened, not sealed, not labeled, and not dated, including syrup, pasta, sandwich bread, water, maraschino cherries, sour cream, bags of ice, frozen pancakes, and frozen pizza dough. These findings were confirmed by the Regional Chef, who acknowledged that the items were not stored or served according to policy. Additionally, questions were raised about whether twisted or knotted bags were sufficient for sealing, indicating uncertainty or lack of adherence to proper storage practices. Further observations in the facility's pantries revealed additional deficiencies, such as an open, undated, and unsealed loaf of bread and a biscuit wrapped in a napkin with an outdated label. Staff members, including an LPN and an RN Supervisor, confirmed these findings. Additionally, a cook was observed using his foot to keep the oven door open while removing food, a practice confirmed by the Regional Dietary Manager. These actions and inactions demonstrate a pattern of non-compliance with food storage and handling standards, as required by facility policy and professional guidelines.