F0812

D

Unclean Kitchen Surfaces and Equipment in Food Preparation Area

Charlotte, North Carolina Survey Completed on 03-02-2026

Penalty

Fine: $26,685

Summary

Surveyors identified a deficiency in kitchen sanitation and food service practices when they observed visible dirt and grime buildup on a large fire suppression tank and its tubing located above a toaster in a food preparation area, as well as visible food debris and grease buildup in the grout lines of the floor tiles in front of the cooking range. During the initial kitchen tour with the Head Cook, it was noted that these areas were not clean, and the Head Cook reported that housekeeping was responsible for cleaning the kitchen floors but was unsure of the cleaning schedule. The Head Cook acknowledged that grease and food debris would accumulate in the floor grout and stated she was unaware of the visible dirt and grime on the fire suppression tank. These conditions were found in one of two food preparation areas and were determined to have the potential to affect food served to residents.

Interviews with the Housekeeping Supervisor and the Administrator confirmed that the kitchen floors had been recently pressure washed and that a new degreasing product had been ordered due to the prior product not adequately cleaning the floors, but at the time of the survey the buildup of grime, grease, and food debris remained present in the identified areas.