AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

Finding ice crystals on a delivery of frozen foods is a sign of what?

1. Proper storage

2. Time and temperature abuse

3. High-quality product

4. Supplier integrity

The correct answer is: Time and temperature abuse

The presence of ice crystals on a delivery of frozen foods typically indicates time and temperature abuse. When frozen foods are improperly stored or experience fluctuations in temperature, the moisture present in the food can begin to evaporate and then refreeze, forming ice crystals. This can occur during transport if the products are not kept at the appropriate freezing temperatures or if they are left out at higher temperatures for too long. In contrast, proper storage would maintain the frozen food at a consistent and appropriate temperature, preventing the formation of ice crystals. High-quality products are meant to have minimal ice formation when handled correctly. Supplier integrity can refer to the reputation and reliability of a supplier, but it does not directly correlate with the specific indicator of ice crystals on the product. Therefore, ice crystals serve as a clear indication that the food has likely been subjected to unacceptable conditions, supporting the conclusion that the food may have experienced time and temperature abuse.