Lighthouse Prep

24-02 · Food Preparation Area

There is an area near one of the infant rooms where formula was being mixed, the director was not aware that this is considered a food preparation area. The director explained she will now have parents mix their own formula and bring it in. This has now been resolved. The Child Care Facility Handbook states: 3.9.1 Food Preparation Area A food preparation area is a designated room, such as a kitchen, or a designated space in a facility not normally used or accessible to the children in daily operations for indoor play, classroom, work or nap spaces, and not included when calculating usable indoor floor space. A. A food preparation area is required for facilities that choose to prepare food in a manner consistent with the definition of preparation of food. Specific requirements for the food preparation area include: 1. Ventilation provided either by mechanical or natural means to provide fresh air and control of unpleasant odors, such as a fan, vent, or open window with a screen. 2. Smooth, nonabsorbent food contact surfaces with no unsealed cracks or seams. Food-contact surfaces are surfaces of equipment, countertops, utensils, etc., that food comes into contact with during food preparation. 3. Food equipment maintained and stored in a sanitary manner and out of the reach of children. 4. Shielded lighting. 5. Nonabsorbent and easily-cleaned walls, flooring, and floor covering. 6. Easily cleanable and replaceable ceiling in the event of water and other damage, mildew or mold. 7. A separate handwashing station with hot running water, a minimum of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The handwashing station must include a sink with running water and drainage, soap, trash can, and disposable towels or hand-drying machines that are properly installed and maintained. A handwashing sink shall not be used for any purpose other than handwashing. Handwashing stations must include posted signs visible to child care personnel and children demonstrating proper handwashing technique. Portable sinks may not be used for dishwashing or food preparation. If a portable sink is used for handwashing in the food preparation area, hot water must be provided. 8. Leak-proof, non-absorbent containers covered with a tight-fitting lid for all food waste stored inside the facility. The container must be emptied, cleaned, and sanitized or disinfected daily. 9. A food preparation area shall be clean and free of dust, dirt, food particles, and grease deposits. B. Child care personnel, while working in the food preparation area, must wear proper head covering, such as a hair net or hat. To prevent contact with ready to-eat foods, child care personnel must use clean disposable gloves, utensils, or similar items in the food preparation area. C. For safety, children must not be present in the food preparation area when meals and snacks are prepared unless being supervised or participating in a cooking activity

Corrected by May 29, 2024

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