Failure to Serve Palatable and Properly Heated Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was served at a palatable and appetizing temperature during tray service, as required by their dietary food preparation policy. Observations revealed that hot foods, such as sausage patties and scrambled eggs, were served below the acceptable temperature threshold, with the sausage patty measuring 93°F and the eggs at 115.9°F, both of which felt cold. Additionally, lunch service included chicken strips that tasted rubbery, limp and damp bread, and mashed potatoes that were dry, bland, and powdery without gravy. These issues were directly observed during meal service on different halls. Interviews with two residents confirmed dissatisfaction with the food, citing that it was often cold and unpalatable. One resident, with diagnoses including major depressive disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and epilepsy, reported that the food was not always warm and tasted bad. Another resident, with bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, type two diabetes, and schizoaffective disorder, stated that the food was frequently cold and could be better. The Food Service Manager attributed the temperature issues to frequent elevator breakdowns, which forced staff to carry food up the stairs, causing delays in meal delivery.