What should be done with food that has been dropped on the floor?

Food safety protocols dictate that food which has fallen on the floor should be discarded if it is not in a sealed container. This guideline is in place because when food comes into contact with surfaces that may harbor bacteria, dirt, or other contaminants, it can pose a significant risk to health if consumed.

The presence of bacteria or other harmful substances on the floor can lead to foodborne illnesses, so even if the food appears clean, it cannot be ensured that it is safe for consumption. Sealed containers offer some protection against contamination, but it's generally best practice to err on the side of caution and dispose of any food items that have fallen.

This approach promotes a safe food handling environment by minimizing the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring that only safe food is served or consumed.