How should a food handler respond to a food recall?

A food handler should promptly remove the recalled item from inventory and inform others because this action directly addresses the potential safety risks associated with the recalled food. Food recalls are issued to protect consumers from harmful products or potential contamination, and by swiftly removing the recalled item, the food handler prevents it from being served or sold, thus protecting public health.

Informing others, such as coworkers or management, ensures that everyone is aware of the situation and can take the necessary steps to prevent the recalled item from being used. It fosters a proactive approach to food safety in the establishment, allowing for quick coordination and communication to address the issue effectively.

Ignoring the recall or waiting for more information can lead to serious consequences, including serving unsafe food. Storing the recalled item separately without taking further action also does not adequately mitigate the risk, as the item can still be inadvertently used or served. Therefore, the most responsible and safest course of action is to quickly remove the recalled item and communicate the recall to relevant personnel.