The rule for food-borne illness states, "When in doubt, __________."

The principle "When in doubt, throw it out" highlights a crucial aspect of food safety: if there is any uncertainty concerning the safety of a food item, it is safer to discard it rather than risk food-borne illness. This rule emphasizes the importance of erring on the side of caution. Food that may appear questionable, has an off smell, shows signs of spoilage, or has been improperly stored could harbor pathogens that pose a health risk.

By choosing to discard the item, individuals can prevent potential food poisoning, which can have serious health consequences. This approach reinforces accountability in food handling and preparation practices, ensuring that health is prioritized over wastefulness or uncertainty.

The other options, while they may seem reasonable in certain contexts, do not prioritize health and safety in the way that discarding suspicious food does. Asking someone may not always provide a definitive answer, cooking food longer doesn’t guarantee the elimination of toxins, and ignoring potentially unsafe food can lead to severe health risks. Therefore, the best course of action when unsure about food safety is to dispose of it.