A manager plans a weekend omelet station where a cook prepares eggs in front of guests, next to an open tray of diced toppings guests scoop themselves. What protection does the topping tray need?
a.A printed label listing each topping and its major allergens, posted at the front edge of the tray for guests to read
b.A small fan blowing air across the tray to keep flying insects away, which substitutes for a physical barrier on a display
c.A sneeze guard or similar barrier, plus dedicated serving utensils, because it is self-service food on display
d.Nothing beyond the utensils already in the tray, because a cook stands at the counter, watching guests as they serve themselves
Explanation
Any food displayed for customer self-service must be protected by packaging, a counter guard, or another effective barrier, with proper utensils provided. Labeling helps guests with allergens but is not a barrier, moving air does not stop a cough or a reaching hand, and the cook's presence at the station does not shield the open tray from guest coughs, sneezes, and hands.
Law Reference: FDA Food Code §3-306.11Practice all 500 questions free — no signup required.
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