Failure to Follow Food Storage and Safety Standards in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen regarding food storage, preparation, and safety standards. Specifically, foods stored in the refrigerator, such as trays of drinks and fruit cups, were found to be unlabeled and undated. In the dry storage area, an opened jug of mashed potatoes was left exposed to air, and a can of marinara sauce was found to be dented. Additionally, open items in dry storage were not properly sealed, and dented cans were not separated from other food items as required. Interviews with dietary staff and management confirmed that it was the responsibility of kitchen aides and all kitchen staff to ensure food and drinks were labeled, dated, and sealed appropriately, and to check for and separate dented cans. Staff acknowledged that failure to follow these procedures could result in residents being served expired or contaminated food and drinks. The report does not mention any specific residents affected or their medical conditions at the time of the deficiency.