What steps should be taken after receiving a food delivery?

Inspecting food deliveries for temperature, quality, and expiration dates is essential to ensure food safety and prevent foodborne illnesses. When food arrives, it is crucial to check that perishable items are at the correct temperature, ideally at or below 41°F for refrigerated items and below 0°F for frozen items. This helps to ensure that the food has been stored correctly during transport and has not been compromised by a temperature abuse scenario.

Additionally, examining the quality of the items helps to identify any signs of spoilage or damage. Checking expiration dates is vital to avoid using products that are past their usable shelf life, which could pose health risks.

By taking these steps, you ensure that the food being received is safe for consumption and meets health standards. This is a foundational practice in food safety protocols to protect both consumers and the establishment's reputation.