A dietary assistant works in a healthcare cafeteria.
According to Merritt College, "The dietary assistant is employed in institutional food service (usually health care) to help the dietary staff provide health, safe and nutritious food." Typically employed by hospitals and long-term care facilities, dietary assistants are an important element of the food-service team. The duties of a dietary assistant are straightforward, yet extensive. In addition to providing food-preparation assistance in the kitchen, she also maintains a safe, clean and friendly environment.
Food Preparation
One of the main duties of a dietary assistant is to assist the cooks and chefs in the preparation of meals and snacks. Food preparation commonly includes gathering ingredients, washing fruits and vegetables, chopping vegetables and operating equipment. A dietary assistant maintains the utmost level of safety in the kitchen, which includes handling equipment and food safely. The dietary assistant should be trained in proper sanitation procedures and policies, such as those associated with raw meats, raw eggs and proper food temperatures.
Food Service
Along with other members of the dietary staff, the dietary assistant provides friendly and compassionate customer service. In a long-term health care facility or hospital, the dietary assistant might collaborate with guests and residents to devise a nutritionally balanced meal plan. At specific hours of the day, she will deliver meals and/or snacks to customers and/or residents. If complaints arise, she handles the issue with courtesy and respect. In a hospital or long-term care facility, the dietary assistant ensures that patients and residents are provided with foods that meet their individual preferences.
Cleaning
A dietary assistant maintains the cleanliness of the kitchen. After meals and snacks are served, the dietary assistant retrieves soiled dishes, utensils and trays and places them into the dishwasher. Once the dish-washing cycle finishes, she will return the clean items to their appropriate locations in the kitchen. She also cleans any pots, pans and utensils used during the cooking processes. Once all dirty dishes have been cleaned and put away, she will clean and sanitize counter tops, food preparation equipment, tables and floors. The dietary assistant empties trash cans regularly, maintains a fully-stocked pantry and reports malfunctioning equipment and low supplies to her supervisor immediately.
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