What should you do if you suspect food is contaminated?

When you suspect that food is contaminated, the appropriate action is to discard it and inform a supervisor. This is critical for several reasons. Contaminated food poses a significant health risk as it can lead to foodborne illnesses. Serving food that is suspected of being contaminated could put customers at risk, which could lead to serious health consequences and damage the reputation of the establishment.

By discarding the suspected food, you eliminate the risk of someone consuming it and becoming ill. Informing a supervisor is equally important as it allows for a proper investigation into the source of the contamination and enables the establishment to implement corrective measures to prevent future occurrences. This approach aligns with food safety protocols and ensures that customer safety remains the top priority.

Storing the food for later use or attempting to cook it longer are not safe practices, as these might not eliminate potential pathogens or toxins present in the food. Serving the food cautiously could lead to severe repercussions for both customers and the food service operation. Hence, the correct response prioritizes safety and proper protocol.