Certified Professional Food Safety (CP-FS) Practice Exam

What is the most reliable way to ensure seafood has not been temperature abused before receipt?

1. Buying from local fishermen

2. Using reputable suppliers

3. Inspecting the seafood personally

4. Storing seafood at ambient temperature

The correct answer is: Using reputable suppliers

Using reputable suppliers is the most reliable way to ensure seafood has not been temperature abused before receipt because established suppliers have protocols and practices in place to maintain proper temperature controls throughout the supply chain. They typically understand the importance of food safety and are more likely to comply with regulations and best practices for storage and transportation, thereby reducing the risk of temperature abuse. Reputable suppliers often provide documentation such as temperature logs or HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) plans that can give confidence that the seafood was handled properly. This traceability assures that they have systems in place to monitor conditions and ensure quality and safety, which is critical given the higher risk associated with seafood due to potential pathogens. While buying from local fishermen might seem appealing, it does not guarantee temperature controls are followed, as individual practices can vary widely. Personal inspection of seafood helps but can only identify surface conditions and may not reveal if seafood has been improperly stored at any point before receipt. Storing seafood at ambient temperature is not a safe practice and contradicts the need for proper temperature control to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness.