What should be done to food that is found to be at improper temperatures during transport?

When food is found to be at improper temperatures during transport, discarding the food immediately is the appropriate action to take. This approach is rooted in food safety protocols designed to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Food that is kept outside the safe temperature range can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, which can contaminate the food and pose serious health risks if consumed. If the food has been at an unsafe temperature for too long, it may not be safe to eat, even if it appears and smells normal. Discarding the food eliminates the risk of serving potentially dangerous items.

In contrast, continuing transport without changes ignores the risk posed by the improper temperatures. Re-cooling food is also not feasible, as it may not bring the food back to a safe state for consumption. Simply checking the food off the delivery list does not address the safety concerns that arise from the temperature issue. Thus, immediate disposal is the best option to ensure health and safety.