Who is primarily responsible for ensuring sanitary meal preparation and serving?

The Dietary Department is primarily responsible for ensuring sanitary meal preparation and serving because it specializes in managing all aspects of food service within an institution. This department focuses on developing menus, ensuring food safety regulations are met, and overseeing food handling practices. Staff in the Dietary Department are trained in sanitation standards and food safety protocols, which are essential in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring that meals are prepared and served in a hygienic environment.

While the Health Services Department may be involved in broader health-related aspects and the Compliance Department ensures that regulations are being followed, they do not directly manage the day-to-day operations of meal preparation and serving. The Administration Department typically oversees the overall operation of the facility, which may include budgeting and staffing decisions but not specifically the sanitary aspects of meal preparation. Therefore, the Dietary Department's dedicated focus on food service makes it the primary authority in this area.