F0812

F

Improper Storage of Personal Cow Hide in Walk-In Freezer Used for Resident Food

Buffalo, Wyoming Survey Completed on 01-23-2026

Penalty

No penalty information released

Summary

Surveyors observed that food was not stored in accordance with professional standards for food service safety in the facility’s warehouse walk-in freezer. During an observation, a black plastic bag was seen on the freezer floor near the entry door. The dietary manager stated the bag contained a cow hide that was his personal item and acknowledged that other items in the freezer were for resident consumption. Later observation showed the dietary manager opening the bag, revealing a frozen cow hide with black hair, folded and covered with ice on the flesh and hair. The hide was stored directly on the freezer floor, not elevated as required.

The facility administrator reported he had been aware of the cow hide being stored in the freezer months earlier and had instructed the dietary manager to remove it, believing it had been taken out. He was unsure whether the hide had been removed and then returned to the freezer. Facility policy on food preparation and storage required protection of food from contamination or cross-contamination in accordance with the current food code, including proper storage and handling. The 2022 FDA Food Code requires food to be stored in a clean, dry location, protected from contamination, and at least 6 inches above the floor, which was not followed in this instance.