New York City Food Protection Practice Test

What must be done when foods are stored directly in ice?

1. The ice must be kept frozen

2. The water from the ice must be drained constantly

3. The ice must be covered

4. The food must be wrapped tightly

The correct answer is: The water from the ice must be drained constantly

When foods are stored directly in ice, it is essential to drain the water from the ice constantly. This practice is crucial because as the ice melts, the water can become a breeding ground for bacteria if it is not removed. Keeping food in melted ice water increases the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illnesses, as the temperature of the food can rise above safe levels. Therefore, actively draining the water not only helps maintain a cooler temperature around the food but also prevents the potential growth of harmful pathogens. While other options may sound reasonable, they do not address the critical need to manage the melted ice effectively. For instance, the ice does not need to be kept frozen since the purpose here is to use it for keeping items cool rather than maintaining a solid state. Covering the ice might not necessarily prevent contamination, and wrapping food tightly, though it can help in some situations, is not directly related to the management of stored food in melting ice.