California Code of Regulations
Title 22 - Social Security
Division 5 - Licensing and Certification of Health Facilities, Home Health Agencies, Clinics, and Referral Agencies
Chapter 4 - Intermediate Care Facilities
Article 3 - Services
Section 73337 - Dietetic Service-Food Storage

(a) Food storage areas shall be clean at all times.

(b) Dry or staple food items shall be stored at least 30 centimeters (12 inches) above the floor, in a ventilated room, not subject to sewage or waste water backflow, or contamination by condensation, leakage, rodents or vermin.

(c) All readily perishable foods or beverages capable of supporting rapid and progressive growth of microorganisms which can cause food infections or food intoxication shall be maintained at temperatures of 7°C (45°F) or below, or at 60°C (140°F) or above, at all times, except during necessary periods of preparation and service. Frozen foods shall be stored at minus 18°C (0°F) or below at all times. There shall be a reliable thermometer in each refrigerator freezer and in storerooms used for perishable food.

(d) Pesticides, other toxic substances and drugs shall not be stored in the kitchen area or in storerooms for food and/or food preparation equipment and utensils.

(e) Soaps, detergents, cleaning compounds or similar substances shall be stored in separate defined storage areas.