20 CAR § 417-708 – Preparation and storage of food

(a) All food prepared in the psychiatric residential treatment facility shall be clean, wholesome, free from spoilage, and so prepared as to be safe for human consumption.
(b) All food stored in the refrigerators shall be stored in covered containers.
(c) Leftover foods shall be labeled and dated with the date of preparation.
(d) Foods stored in freezers shall be wrapped in airtight packages, labeled, and dated.
(e) Fresh fruits and vegetables shall be thoroughly washed in clean, safe water before use.
(f) Vegetables subject to dehydration during storage shall be wrapped or bagged in plastic.
(g) All readily perishable foods, including eggs and fluids, shall be stored at or below forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41°F).
(h)
1. (1) All frozen foods shall be stored at a temperature that keeps frozen foods solidly frozen.
2. (2) Frozen foods which have been thawed shall not be refrozen.
(i) All toxic compounds shall be used with extreme caution and shall be stored in an area separate from food preparation, storage, and service areas.
(j) Work areas and equipment shall be adequate for the efficient preparation and service of foods.
(k)
1. (1) Supplies of perishable foods for a one-day period and of nonperishable foods for a three-day period shall be on the premises at all times to meet the requirements of the planned menus.
2. (2) If the psychiatric residential treatment facility consistently does not have the required one-day perishable and three-day nonperishable foods, the Office of Long-Term Care will require that the psychiatric residential treatment facility alter its food delivery schedule to meet regulations.
(l) Food served in any psychiatric residential treatment facility must have been prepared on the premises or in an establishment approved by and meeting regulatory standards of the Department of Health.
(m) The use of tobacco in any form or vaping products is prohibited where food or drink is prepared, stored, cooked, or where dishes or pots and pans are washed or stored.
(n) If a resident refuses food served, appropriate substitutes must be offered.