ServSafe Manager Practice Exam

What should a food handler do when asked to put away a shipment of whole potatoes?

1. Store them in the freezer

2. Move them to a cool, dry storage area

3. Place them in direct sunlight to ripen

4. Leave them in the delivery area

The correct answer is: Move them to a cool, dry storage area

Storing whole potatoes properly is essential for maintaining their quality and safety. The correct course of action is to move them to a cool, dry storage area. This environment helps to prevent sprouting and spoilage, as potatoes thrive best when stored between 45°F and 55°F in a dark, dry place. Exposure to sunlight can lead to greening, which produces solanine, a toxic compound. In contrast, storing potatoes in the freezer is inappropriate because freezing can alter their texture and flavor, making them unpalatable upon thawing. Leaving potatoes in the delivery area could expose them to fluctuating temperatures and possible contamination before they are properly stored. Placing them in direct sunlight can cause them to heat up and possibly increase the risk of spoilage or the formation of harmful compounds. Therefore, moving them to a cool, dry storage area is the best practice to ensure their safety and quality.