Improper Sealing and Storage of Food Items in Kitchen Cooler
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to properly store food items in the kitchen's reach-in cooler. Specifically, a container of shredded cheese was found with its plastic lid not fully sealed, leaving one corner open and exposing the cheese to the ambient air. Additionally, a cardboard case of breakfast sausage was discovered open, with the bag inside also unsealed, resulting in the sausage being exposed to the cooler's air. These observations were made during a routine inspection of the kitchen. During an interview, the Dietary Manager confirmed that both the cheese and sausage should have been sealed to prevent exposure, acknowledging that all staff responsible for storing food in the cooler are expected to ensure proper sealing. Review of the facility's Food Safety and Sanitation policy, as well as the 2022 FDA Food Code, confirmed that food must be stored in covered containers or wrappings to prevent contamination. The facility's failure to adhere to these standards was documented as a deficiency.