Deficient Food Storage and Sanitation Practices Identified in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in food storage and sanitation practices within the facility's kitchen. An open and undated package of waffles was found in the freezer, and a container of rotting lettuce was present in the walk-in refrigerator. Additional issues included uncovered celery, an open and undated package of hot dogs, a container of raw chicken sitting in its own juices, and an undated package of American cheese slices. Expired food items, such as two large containers of yogurt and a container of pasta salad, were also found. A kitchen staff member confirmed that items were expired, undated, and improperly stored, and admitted to not knowing how long items should remain in the refrigerator. The staff member repackaged and dated the hot dogs instead of discarding them and acknowledged that rotting and uncovered items should have been discarded or covered according to facility policy. Further inspection revealed unsanitary conditions throughout the kitchen. Debris was found under the steam table, on the cart holding serving trays, and in the spooning tray. Sticky substances were present on shelves holding food items, and the microwave contained debris and had not been cleaned. Dirty muffin containers were found on the clean dish rack, and storage containers for oats and fry mix were coated with dust and debris. Fans in the dish room were also coated with dust and debris. A kitchen staff member confirmed these observations and stated that floors are supposed to be cleaned at night. These findings demonstrate a failure to maintain safe food storage and sanitary conditions as required by facility policy.