FOODSAFE Food Storage Best Practices

Question 1

What does the FIFO method stand for and why is it important in food storage?

Accepted Answer

First In, First Out — older stock is used before newer stock to prevent spoilage and waste

Answer

FIFO (First In, First Out) ensures older stock is used before newer deliveries, reducing waste and preventing food from sitting beyond its safe storage life. New deliveries are placed behind existing stock to maintain this rotation.

Question 2

At what height should food be stored off the floor in a dry storage area?

Accepted Answer

At least 15 cm (6 inches) off the floor

Answer

Food must be stored at least 15 cm (6 inches) off the floor on shelves or pallets. This prevents contamination from floor cleaning, pest access, and moisture damage, and allows for proper cleaning beneath storage areas.

Question 3

How should dry goods (flour, sugar, rice) be stored after opening?

Accepted Answer

Transfer to clean, labelled, food-grade containers with tight-fitting lids

Answer

Open bags are vulnerable to pests, moisture, and contamination. Transferring dry goods to food-grade containers with tight lids protects against insects, rodents, humidity, and cross-contamination while maintaining quality.

Question 4

What is the maximum recommended temperature for a dry storage area?

Accepted Answer

10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)

Answer

Dry storage areas should be maintained between 10°C and 21°C (50°F to 70°F) with good ventilation and 50–60% relative humidity. Higher temperatures accelerate spoilage, promote pest activity, and reduce the shelf life of dry goods.

Question 5

Why should food never be stored in containers that previously held chemicals?

Accepted Answer

Chemical residues can leach into food even after washing, causing chemical contamination

Answer

Chemical residues can absorb into container materials (especially plastics) and leach into food even after thorough washing. Only food-grade containers that have never held chemicals should be used for food storage.

BC FOODSAFE Practice Test

BC FOODSAFE Practice Test

FOODSAFE Food Storage Best Practices