AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

What does First in first out mean (FIFO)?

1. Foods with the latest expiration date should be used first

2. Foods should be used in any order

3. Foods with approaching expiration dates should be used first

4. None of these

The correct answer is: Foods with approaching expiration dates should be used first

The concept of "First In, First Out" (FIFO) is a critical inventory management principle used in food safety and storage. This approach dictates that the first items placed in storage should be the first items used. The primary objective of FIFO is to ensure that food products are utilized in the order they were received, particularly focusing on those with the earliest expiration or "best by" dates. By applying the FIFO method, food service operations can significantly minimize the risk of food spoilage and ensure that customers receive fresh and safe products. This is especially important in managing perishable items, which can become unsafe to consume if they are allowed to sit too long and surpass their expiration dates. In this question, the correct understanding is that foods with approaching expiration dates should be prioritized for use. This practice helps ensure that older stock is used before newer stock, reducing waste and promoting food safety.