Improper Food Storage and Unsanitary Kitchen Conditions
Penalty
Summary
During an initial kitchen tour, surveyors observed two expired containers of sour cream stored in the kitchen refrigerator, one of which was opened and nearly empty. The Dietary Supervisor (DS) confirmed that the expired sour cream should have been disposed of and acknowledged the risk of stomach upset for residents if consumed. Additionally, an opened plastic bag of soggy salad was found in the refrigerator, which the DS also stated should have been discarded due to similar risks. Review of the facility's policy indicated that all perishable food items are to be stored properly, with open dates and use-by dates per manufacturer guidelines. Further observation revealed that the utensil holder used for storing kitchen utensils was not clean, with visible brownish stains and scattered brownish particles. The DS acknowledged the utensil holder was dirty and recognized the risk of cross-contamination from storing utensils in such a condition. Facility policy requires all kitchen equipment and surfaces that come in contact with food to be cleaned and sanitized after each use. The 2022 Federal Food Code also mandates that food-contact surfaces be clean to sight and touch, and free of food residue and debris.