Dietetic Technician Practice Test

You are completing inventory in the walk-in refrigerator. Which of the following should be discarded?

1. 2-day old leftover beef stew at 40F

2. Hard cooked eggs cooked 5 days ago at 39F

3. Tightly wrapped hard cheese that is 5 months old at 40F

4. 4-day ground beef at 42F

The correct answer is: 4-day ground beef at 42F

The situation presented pertains to food safety guidelines and proper storage times for different food items. In this case, ground beef typically has a shorter shelf life compared to the other items listed. When raw meat is stored, it is advised that ground beef be consumed or cooked within one to two days when stored at refrigeration temperatures, ideally below 40°F. If the ground beef has been in the refrigerator for four days and is stored at 42°F, it exceeds the safe storage duration and temperature guidelines, increasing the risk of bacterial growth and potential foodborne illness. The reason for discarding the 4-day-old ground beef lies in the potential hazard it poses. Bacteria can grow on meat, especially ground meat, which has a larger surface area exposed to potential contaminants. Therefore, emphasizing food safety, it is crucial to adhere to recommended storage times and temperatures to prevent health risks. The other food items, though some might be nearing their limits, do not indicate the same level of immediate concern based on standard food storage practices.