Failure to Maintain Walk-In Freezer in Safe Operating Condition
Penalty
Summary
Surveyor observation and staff interview revealed that the facility failed to maintain the walk-in freezer unit in the main kitchen in a safe operating condition. During the initial kitchen tour, the freezer was found to be holding at an ambient temperature of 28 degrees Fahrenheit, and several food items, including chicken wings, chicken tenders, lobster, and pork sausage patties, were observed in a partially thawed state. The Food Service Director acknowledged both the improper freezer temperature and the fact that the items were not frozen solid, further indicating that the freezer temperatures had been erratic recently and that the unit was in need of replacement. This deficiency was identified in connection with a community-reported complaint regarding concerns of foodborne illness among residents.