ServSafe Manager Practice Exam

What must be done to food before it is stored to ensure safety?

1. It must be washed

2. It must be wrapped or covered

3. It must be cooked

4. It must be frozen

The correct answer is: It must be wrapped or covered

Before food is stored, it is essential to wrap or cover it properly to ensure safety. This practice prevents contamination from other food items, surfaces, or environmental factors and helps maintain the food's quality and freshness. Covering or wrapping food creates a barrier that protects it from bacteria, pests, and physical contaminants that may invade during storage. The other options highlight important food safety practices but are not specifically necessary for food storage. Washing food is critical for removing dirt and potential pesticide residues but may not be required for all types of food before storage. Cooking food is essential for safety, especially for meat and poultry, to kill harmful pathogens; however, this step is not about storage. Freezing food is a preservation technique that extends shelf life, but not all foods must be frozen before storage, as many can simply be refrigerated or stored at room temperature, depending on the type of food and its intended use.