A Chef's Insight into 5-Star Care Home Kitchens

It’s World Food Safety Day so we're taking a moment to celebrate the unsung heroes in our kitchens who ensure every meal is not just delicious, but perfectly safe.

We're incredibly proud that all our homes boast a 5-star food hygiene rating, a testament to the dedication behind the scenes. To understand what that truly means, we sat down with Simon Hurst, our head chef at Hamilton Court.

 Simon spoke about the immense responsibility of cooking in a care home. "Achieving and maintaining a 5-star rating isn't just about ticking boxes," he began, "it's about the deep understanding of the food we prepare goes to our residents, many of whom are more vulnerable. Their immune systems might not be as robust, or they might have underlying health conditions that make them susceptible to foodborne illnesses.

"For us, food safety isn't just a rule; it's a fundamental part of the care we provide. Every plate we send out needs to be not only delicious and nourishing but also impeccably safe. It's about protecting their health and ensuring their peace of mind."

So, what does 'food safety' actually mean on a day-to-day basis in a busy kitchen like theirs?

"People often think of just handwashing," Simon laughed, "and yes, rigorous handwashing is absolutely critical! But it's so much more comprehensive than that. In essence, it means taking every possible measure to ensure that the food we prepare and serve is free from any harmful contaminants. That involves incredibly strict temperature control – making sure food is cooked to the right temperature and stored safely, whether hot or cold. It's about preventing cross-contamination, separating raw and cooked foods, and using different chopping boards and utensils for specific tasks. We only ever source ingredients from reputable, approved suppliers who meet our stringent standards."

He went on to explain how this vigilance extends to every resident's unique needs. "Our residents are unique, and so are their dietary requirements. Food safety is deeply woven into how we cater to everyone. For a resident with allergies, food safety means having robust systems to identify and eliminate the allergen from their meal, right down to preventing cross-contact during preparation. For those with texture-modified diets, we ensure the food is prepared and stored in a way that maintains its safety while still achieving the correct consistency. Every individual care plan has food safety considerations built into it, ensuring their specific needs are met safely."

Maintaining these high standards requires constant effort and a dedicated team. Simon  explained, "Every member of our catering team undergoes regular food hygiene training, covering everything from basic principles to advanced hazard analysis. We also have daily briefings where we discuss any specific dietary needs for the day or potential risks. Beyond formal training, it's about creating a culture of awareness and responsibility. We have regular internal audits, and we're always reviewing our processes to make sure we're upholding the highest possible standards."

As our chat concluded, Simon offered some advice for families and other care settings. "I'd say always ask questions! Don't hesitate to ask about a care home's food hygiene rating, their processes, and how they cater to specific needs. For families providing snacks or treats, always check with the care team first to ensure they're appropriate and safe for your loved one. Ultimately, robust food safety practices are a fundamental sign of a care home that truly prioritises the health and well-being of its residents."

This World Food Safety Day, we want to extend a huge thank you to our entire catering team. Their expertise, vigilance, and passion for safety are truly the secret ingredients in the compassionate care we provide every single day.