Failure to Provide Consistent, Palatable, and Appropriately Portioned Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food portions were appropriate and that meals served were palatable for residents, with the exception of one resident who did not consume meals from the kitchen. Observations during a lunch tray line revealed inconsistencies in portion sizes, with residents on pureed diets receiving different amounts of food compared to those on regular diets, and the last group of residents served receiving smaller portions as food supplies ran low. Additionally, food items such as pureed spaghetti, salad, and garlic bread were not kept within the steam tables, and some food temperatures were not recorded or were recorded incorrectly. The temperature log was not consistently updated, and not all required food temperatures were obtained prior to meal service. Further observations showed that as meal service continued, the quality of the food deteriorated, with spaghetti noodles hardening and becoming crusty. Staff confirmed they were attempting to stretch limited food supplies to serve all residents, resulting in inconsistent portion sizes that did not match the recommended amounts listed on the facility's spreadsheet. A test tray revealed that some food items were served at inappropriate temperatures, and staff were unsure of the correct serving temperatures. Review of facility policy indicated that meals should be nourishing, palatable, well-balanced, and served at safe and appetizing temperatures, but these standards were not met during the observed meal service.