Deficiencies in Kitchen Sanitation and Food Storage Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's food service operations, including unclean conditions and improper food storage practices. Specifically, a ceiling vent and a side wall air vent in the kitchen were found covered with dirt and dust particles. Additionally, an opened jar of mayonnaise in the refrigerator and two bags of cookie pieces in the storage room were not dated, contrary to facility policy. The dish machine was also found to be malfunctioning, as it did not record the sanitizer concentrate level after a wash cycle, raising concerns about the effectiveness of dishware sanitation. Interviews with the Food Service Director confirmed that the vents had not been cleaned and that food items were not properly labeled with dates as required. The Food Service Director was unaware of the dish machine sanitizer issue, which was not functioning at the time of observation. The Maintenance Director stated he had not received a work order to clean the vents. Review of facility policies indicated that regular cleaning schedules and proper labeling and dating of food items were required, but these procedures were not followed, resulting in the cited deficiencies.