A Calibrated Thermometer is an Essential Tool in Food Service


The regular and consistent use of a calibrated probe thermometer in any food service is an indispensable tool. It helps any food service protect their customers from foodborne illnesses which are a major health concern to…

As our residents age, they experience changes in their physical and mental abilities which may require alterations in the consistency of their diet. Dysphagia affects anywhere from 35 to 60 percent of elderly people living in long term care facilities. It is important as health care providers to ensure that…

Liberalized Renal Diets in Long-Term Care FacilitiesThe American Dietetic Association recommends that long-term care facilities liberalize therapeutic diets to maximize meal intake of residents who are at nutritional risk. In many cases a regular diet improves meal intake, minimizes struggles over dietary compliance, and improves a patient’s quality of life. …

Controlling Unintentional Weight Loss

The health and well-being of its residents is the major concern for any long-term care (LTC) facility. Unintentional weight loss (UWL)—along with poor nutritional status—is a threat to the resident’s quality of life and significantly increases the risk of death in nursing home…

F 325 Nutritional Status - Advance copy of Guidelines released

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently released the newly revised nutrition and sanitation regulations and investigative guidelines to surveyors.  Slated to become effective September 1, 2008, the intent of F 325 ( previously…

You Are What You EatThe old adage, though many would like to believe otherwise, is very true… we are what we eat.   One of the main reasons people become overweight or obese is overeating.  And for those who eat out frequently, portion size can be a detriment contributing to…

Nutrition and Aging-The decline in the senses of taste and smell


Nutrition is vitally important for all age groups but is especially a concern for the elderly population. Proper menu planning is critical for providing the essential nutrients that a resident so desperately needs. Older adults…

Salmonella Outbreak in Peanut ButterRecently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended that products containing peanut butter be eliminated from consumer’s diets until further information becomes available. At least 474 people in 43 states have been sickened by peanut butter and peanut paste,…

Procedure for Holding Food Safely during Meal ServiceAll potentially hazardous foods, especially those items that are cooked and held for service, need to be maintained in order to prevent the growth of bacteria.  It is important to remember that microorganisms can grow at temperatures between 41oF and 135oF, so to…

Accurate Weight Measurements - a MUST HAVE for LTC!Accuracy of weight measurements is essential to the nutrition assessment of a resident in long-term care and sets the stage for nutrition intervention.  Weight measurement is used to calculate energy, protein and fluid needs; used as an indicator of nutritional and health…