Deficient Food Storage and Labeling Practices in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen regarding food storage, preparation, and labeling practices. During inspection, it was found that both handwashing sinks in the kitchen lacked garbage receptacles. In the refrigerator, several food items were not properly labeled or sealed, including three bags of meat patties that were undated and exposed to air, a box of diced tomatoes with visible mold growth, and a large container labeled as dry milk containing an unidentified red liquid that was not dated and exposed to air. In the freezer, a box of pork sausage patties was found with the inner bag exposed to air, and several bags of food items such as steak fries, shredded potatoes, and breaded items were either unlabeled, undated, or only had manufacturer dates, with some packaging exposed to air. Interviews with dietary staff confirmed that all staff were responsible for labeling and dating food items, and that food not properly labeled or sealed would not be used due to safety concerns. The facility's own policy, as well as the U.S. FDA Food Code, require that all foods stored in refrigerators or freezers be covered, labeled, and dated. The observed failures to follow these standards were documented during the survey, with staff acknowledging the potential for food safety issues if these practices were not followed.