Failure to Serve Food at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
During an abbreviated survey, it was observed that the facility failed to ensure food and beverages were served at palatable and safe temperatures for residents. On the day of observation, a tray delivery cart was loaded in the main kitchen and sent to a residential unit, with the last meal tray being delivered 26 minutes later. At the time of delivery, a test tray measured by a surveyor and the Food Services Director showed that the roasted potatoes, honey ham, and cooked asparagus were all served at temperatures significantly below recommended hot holding standards, with readings of 101.3°F, 110.6°F, and 101.8°F respectively. The black coffee was also measured at 127.3°F. The Food Services Director acknowledged that the food was cold and expressed unawareness that the temperature would drop so much during transit. Additionally, a resident interviewed confirmed that food intended to be hot was sometimes served cold.