What should be done if food is suspected to be contaminated?

When food is suspected to be contaminated, the most appropriate action is to stop use immediately and report the concern to the supervisor. This approach ensures that there is no longer any risk of serving or consuming the potentially contaminated food, which protects both the staff and customers from potential foodborne illnesses. Reporting to a supervisor is crucial as they are typically equipped to handle such situations appropriately, which may involve direct actions such as disposal, contacting health authorities, or further investigation into the issue.

Stopping the use of the contaminated food right away helps to contain any potential hazards within the food establishment. It also allows for an immediate assessment of the situation, ensuring that all necessary precautions can be taken quickly to mitigate risks, including potential outbreaks. A supervisor can then assess the situation more thoroughly, determine the source of contamination, and decide on further steps, like notifying health authorities if needed.

The other options could pose risks: immediate disposal without proper assessment may lead to unnecessary wastage, storing it for later inspection could expose others to the contaminated food, and testing in a lab might delay necessary actions and put individuals at risk in the interim. Therefore, promptly reporting the concern and ceasing the use of the item ensures food safety protocols are followed efficiently.