What is the purpose of the FIFO method in food storage?

The FIFO method, which stands for "First In, First Out," is a critical practice in food storage that primarily aims to minimize waste. By using this method, food items that are received first are used or sold first. This helps prevent spoilage and reduces the risk of food safety hazards associated with using older stock, which can lead to food waste. By regularly rotating ingredients in this manner, establishments ensure that food is used within its optimal time frame, maintaining quality and safety.

Promoting rapid cooking is not a goal of FIFO; rather, it focuses on managing stock effectively. Ensuring the quickest sales may seem related, but FIFO is more about the quality and safety of ingredients rather than the speed of sales. Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial in food storage but does not relate directly to the FIFO method, which is specifically about the order of usage rather than temperature management.