What should be the first step if food becomes contaminated?

When food becomes contaminated, the most appropriate initial step is to discard the contaminated food. This action is crucial because consuming contaminated food can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can have serious health consequences. By disposing of the food, you eliminate the risk of someone consuming it and potentially getting sick from harmful pathogens or toxins that may be present.

Discarding the contaminated food helps ensure that it does not pose a hazard to anyone and protects overall food safety. It's vital to recognize that once food is contaminated, taking steps like washing, freezing, or reheating may not guarantee its safety, as these methods may not effectively eliminate certain types of contaminants or their effects. Prioritizing safety by discarding the compromised food is the best course of action.