Ontario Food Handler Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommended action when you need to reject a shipment?

1. Keep the rejected food separated from other foods

2. Tell the delivery person the exact problem with the food

3. Show the reason for rejecting the food

4. Record the rejection in a delivery log

The correct answer is: Show the reason for rejecting the food

When rejecting a shipment of food, it is crucial to show the reason for rejecting the food. This action serves multiple purposes: it documents the basis for the rejection, provides clarity to both the delivery person and your records, and ensures that any quality or safety issues are appropriately communicated. Highlighting the specific reason for the rejection can also help the supplier understand problems in their processes or product and can prevent similar issues in the future. In terms of context, keeping the rejected food separated from other foods is important for safety and hygiene, but it is not as focused on the communication of the rejection's rationale. Telling the delivery person the exact problem is also important, but merely verbal communication may not be sufficient in establishing an official record. Recording the rejection in a delivery log is a best practice for tracking purposes, but it mainly serves administrative needs and doesn’t address the immediate communication of the issue at hand. Showing the reason for rejection targets both communication and documentation, making it the most comprehensive action to take.