State Food Safety Practice Exam

A restaurant manager has received eight complaints from unrelated customers who have ordered dinners containing chicken. How should the manager respond?

1. Order a new shipment of chicken

2. Wait to see if more customers report symptoms

3. Advise customers to order chicken at their own risk

4. Close the restaurant and notify the regulatory authority

The correct answer is: Close the restaurant and notify the regulatory authority

The appropriate course of action for the restaurant manager in this situation is to close the restaurant and notify the regulatory authority. This response is crucial for several reasons. First, receiving multiple complaints about the same food item, particularly a high-risk food like chicken which is commonly associated with foodborne illnesses, raises a significant safety concern. The health and safety of customers must be prioritized, and reactive measures like continuing to serve potentially contaminated food could exacerbate the situation. By closing the restaurant, the manager effectively prevents further exposure to any potential health risks. Notifying the regulatory authority is also essential, as they can provide guidance, assistance in investigating the source of the complaints, and ensure that any necessary public health actions are taken, such as tracking any illnesses or potential outbreak implications. Addressing the complaints immediately and proactively demonstrates a commitment to food safety and customer well-being, helping to maintain the establishment's reputation and trust within the community.