What is the recommended action if food appears spoiled upon receipt?

When food appears spoiled upon receipt, the recommended action is to discard it immediately. This is critical to ensure food safety and prevent any potential foodborne illnesses. Spoiled food can harbor harmful bacteria, mold, or toxins that may not be destroyed by cooking, and consuming it could result in serious health risks.

Taking immediate action by discarding the food prevents it from inadvertently being stored and later consumed, reinforcing the importance of keeping food safe from potential contamination. It is essential for food handlers to regularly inspect products for signs of spoilage, such as off odors, unusual colors, or textures, and to prioritize safety over other considerations when it comes to food quality. Storing spoiled food, attempting to cook it, or giving it away can all lead to unsafe situations, and therefore, discarding is the safest course of action.