Failure to Provide Palatable and Properly Tempered Food
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to provide food that was palatable and served at an appetizing temperature for several residents. Multiple residents reported that their food was often cold, not seasoned, or, at times, too hot to eat. Resident grievances and council meeting minutes documented complaints about cold food and beverages. During interviews, residents consistently described dissatisfaction with the temperature and taste of their meals, with some stating the food was lukewarm, unseasoned, or had an unappealing texture. A sampled lunch tray reviewed by the Dietary Manager, Area Director of Operations, and surveyors revealed that the meatloaf had red-tinged areas and the potato wedges were lukewarm, further supporting resident complaints. Despite these findings, facility staff, including the Dietary Manager and Area Director of Operations, maintained that there were no issues with the food, citing proper cooking temperatures and a lack of direct complaints to them. The facility's policy on menu approval and honoring resident preferences did not address requirements for food palatability or serving temperature. The deficiency was substantiated through resident interviews, review of grievances and council minutes, and direct observation of meal service.