Which of the following is an example of improper storage in the walk-in cooler?

The identification of raw chicken stored above lunch meats as an example of improper storage in a walk-in cooler is based on food safety principles, particularly the prevention of cross-contamination. In a commercial kitchen, it is essential to store food items in a way that protects ready-to-eat foods from coming into contact with raw, potentially hazardous foods. Since raw chicken can contain harmful bacteria, storing it above lunch meats, which are ready-to-eat, poses a significant risk of drip contamination. Any juices from the raw chicken could drip onto the lunch meats, leading to serious foodborne illness if the lunch meats are served without proper cooking or further handling.

Storing food items with attention to their characteristics (e.g., raw versus cooked) and their food safety pathways helps ensure that all food is maintained at safe handling practices. In this context, the other scenarios do not present similar risks based on their storage positions. Therefore, understanding these storage practices is crucial for maintaining proper food safety in food handling and preparation environments.