What does the term "FIFO" stand for in food storage?

The term "FIFO" stands for "First In, First Out," which is a crucial principle in food storage and inventory management. This method ensures that the oldest inventory is used first, which helps to maintain the freshness and safety of food products. By using the FIFO method, food handlers can minimize waste and reduce the risk of using expired or spoiled items.

This practice is especially important in food service and retail, where perishable items have limited shelf lives. It encourages a systematic approach to organizing inventory, often requiring that newer items are placed behind older ones so that they are used in the order they were received. This not only enhances food safety by reducing the chances of serving spoiled food but also supports better inventory control and cost management in food handling operations.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the principles of effective food storage and management, making them less relevant to industry standards.