What should you do with food that has been stored improperly?

When food has been stored improperly, disposing of it immediately is the best course of action due to the potential risks associated with foodborne illnesses. Improper storage conditions can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, mold, or other pathogens that compromise food safety. Even if the food appears to be acceptable in terms of smell or appearance, these indicators do not guarantee that it is safe for consumption.

Storing the food for later use or attempting to repackage it safely do not eliminate the risks posed by any pathogens that may have multiplied during the improper storage. Serving food after inspecting it for quality is also not a viable solution, as the inspection will not reveal bacterial contamination or other potential hazards that can lead to foodborne illness. To ensure the safety of customers, it is critical to err on the side of caution and dispose of any food that has been compromised by improper storage.