"First in, First out" (FIFO) refers to the safe food handling practice of?

The concept of "First in, First out" (FIFO) is a critical principle in food safety that helps manage food inventory and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. This practice dictates that older products, which were received first, should be used before newer inventory. Implementing FIFO ensures that food items are utilized in the order they were purchased or produced, helping to prevent spoilage and waste.

Using older products minimizes the likelihood that food will be kept past its expiration date or quality threshold. By adhering to this practice, establishments can maintain the freshness of their ingredients and provide customers with high-quality meals. FIFO not only benefits food safety but also supports efficient stock management in a food service operation, as it encourages the turnover of stock, ultimately reducing financial loss related to expired or spoiled products.