What should be done with food that has been dropped on the floor?

Food that has been dropped on the floor should be discarded immediately because it poses a significant risk of contamination. When food comes into contact with surfaces that may harbor bacteria, dirt, or other harmful pathogens, it is no longer safe for consumption. Even if the food looks clean after being dropped, there could still be unseen contaminants that could cause foodborne illness.

Discarding it is a proactive measure to ensure food safety, as it prevents potential health hazards that could arise from serving food that may have been contaminated. In a food service environment, maintaining the highest standards for food safety is crucial to protect customers and adhere to health regulations. Rinsing or cooking the food would not guarantee the removal of all contaminants, making discard the only safe option.