What should be done with any food that has been contaminated?

Discarding contaminated food immediately is the correct practice to ensure food safety. When food becomes contaminated, it can harbor harmful bacteria, viruses, or chemicals that are not always removed by cooking or rinsing. These pathogens can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can pose serious health risks to consumers.

Freezing or rinsing contaminated food does not guarantee its safety. Cooking may kill some bacteria, but if the food is already contaminated with toxins produced by certain pathogens, cooking won’t make it safe for consumption. Discarding the contaminated food eliminates any risk of illness and is the best course of action for protecting public health.

This approach aligns with standard food safety guidelines, which emphasize the importance of preventing contamination and ensuring that food served is safe to eat. By discarding contaminated food, you are taking proactive measures to maintain a safe food environment.