What should be done with food that has passed its expiration date?

Food that has passed its expiration date should be removed from shelves and disposed of properly to ensure safety for consumers. Expiration dates are set to indicate the time frame in which food is guaranteed to maintain its quality and safety. Consuming expired food poses potential health risks, such as foodborne illness, which can result from spoilage or bacterial growth that may not be visible.

By removing expired food from shelves, retailers protect customers and uphold food safety protocols. This practice also aligns with regulatory standards and ensures the store remains compliant with health and safety guidelines. Proper disposal methods can include returning the food to the supplier or following local regulations for waste management.

The other options either encourage unsafe practices or compromise food safety standards, which is why they are unsuitable choices. In every scenario, prioritizing the health and safety of consumers is essential.