How should food be stored in relation to clean surfaces?

Food must be stored on clean surfaces to maintain its safety and prevent contamination. Clean surfaces help to ensure that any pathogens, dirt, or harmful substances do not come into contact with the food, which could lead to foodborne illnesses. By utilizing clean surfaces, food handlers can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination and ensure that food remains safe for consumption.

While storing food on sealed containers is also important for preserving freshness and preventing exposure to contaminants, it is not a complete solution if the underlying surface is not clean. Clean surfaces and proper containment together create an optimal environment for food safety. Similarly, storing food any height above the floor does not guarantee safety if the surface it is placed on is not sanitized. Contaminated surfaces will pose a direct risk to food safety, leading to potential health hazards. Therefore, the correct practice emphasizes the importance of placing food on clean surfaces to uphold food safety standards.