Which of these food processes does not require variance from a regulatory authority?

Buying bean sprouts from a reputable supplier does not require a variance from a regulatory authority because it is a straightforward purchasing decision that follows standard food safety practices. This process is recognized as typically safe as long as the sprouts are obtained from a reputable source that adheres to established safety standards. Unlike processes that involve potentially hazardous methods of preservation or preparation, purchasing pre-processed foods does not necessitate special permission or deviation from regulatory norms.

In contrast, smoking food for preservation typically alters the food in a way that requires stricter oversight due to potential food safety risks associated with the smoking process. This means that a specific variance would often be necessary to ensure that the methods being used are safe and compliant with food safety regulations. Similarly, buying sushi-grade fish for raw consumption entails ensuring the fish meets safety criteria suitable for raw eating, which might also require a variance to ensure compliance with health standards. Lastly, cooling cooked food rapidly can pose risks of bacterial growth if not done correctly, necessitating adherence to specific guidelines that might be covered under a variance.