What does FIFO stand for in food storage?

FIFO stands for "First In, First Out," which is a method used in food storage to ensure that older stock is used before newer stock. This practice is crucial in maintaining food safety and quality, as it helps to minimize food spoilage and waste. By following the FIFO principle, restaurants and food service establishments can ensure that they are serving the freshest ingredients possible while also reducing the risk of serving expired or unsafe food items.

Using FIFO helps to streamline inventory management, as it encourages regular checks of expiration dates and promotes the rotation of stock. For example, when new supplies arrive, they are placed behind older items on the shelf, so that the older items are used first. This reduces the likelihood of foodborne illness caused by using ingredients that are past their prime or that have been improperly stored.

The other responses, while they may sound plausible, do not accurately reflect the established industry practice and concept of FIFO in food safety and storage management.