Food Safety and Sanitation Deficiencies in Kitchen Operations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain food safety standards in several key areas, as observed during a kitchen tour and food service operations. Surveyors found that the box of the dishwasher heater booster and a stainless-steel storage cart were rusty, and the hinge and handle of the food steam table had a thick whitish, black, and brownish build-up. Additionally, staff personal food items were stored inside the kitchen walk-in refrigerator alongside residents' food items, contrary to facility policy requiring separate storage. Staff confirmed that personal food was kept in a designated bin within the same refrigerator as residents' food. Further deficiencies were observed in food handling and hygiene practices. A food service worker entered the kitchen from the dining area without washing hands and acknowledged the lapse. During tray line and food distribution, the same worker wore a glove on only one hand, touched food directly with the gloved hand, and moved between tasks without changing gloves or performing hand hygiene. Serving utensils were observed resting inside food trays, and food items were not measured according to meal tickets due to a lack of proper scoops. These actions were witnessed by supervisory staff, who intervened to address the improper practices.