What is the proper procedure for handling food that has fallen on the floor?

The correct procedure for handling food that has fallen on the floor is to discard the food and clean the area. When food comes into contact with the floor, it becomes contaminated with bacteria, dirt, and other pathogens that may not be visible. Even if the food looks clean, it can still pose a health risk to consumers if ingested.

Discarding the food ensures that there is no risk of foodborne illness associated with serving potentially contaminated items. Cleaning the area is also essential, as it helps maintain a sanitary environment, preventing future contamination and maintaining overall food safety standards.

Using or washing the contaminated food, as suggested in other choices, may provide a false sense of security, as harmful pathogens may not be removed or killed through washing or inspection. Therefore, the safest and most recommended practice is to discard any food that has fallen to the ground.