What is a proper storage practice for food products?

Storing food products based on their expiration date is an essential practice to ensure food safety. By organizing food items according to when they expire, staff can efficiently manage inventory, reducing the risk of using or serving products that have surpassed their safe consumption date. This helps in preventing foodborne illnesses that could arise from expired ingredients, as older items can harbor harmful bacteria or lose their intended nutritional value.

Identifying and following expiration dates also supports first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory systems, where older products are used before newer ones, further minimizing waste and ensuring that customers receive fresh and safe food. Proper storage practices like this are key to maintaining the quality and safety of food within a kitchen or food service operation.