Final answer:
To maintain sanitary conditions on a hot buffet, it is not recommended to stir new food into old food in a chafing dish to warm it, as this may not heat the food sufficiently to kill bacteria. Instead, use proper reheating techniques, an instant-read thermometer to check food temperatures, and provide clean serving utensils.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technique that is NOT recommended to keep foods on a hot buffet sanitary is: stir new food into any old food remaining in a chafing dish to warm it. This method could lead to uneven heating and potential bacterial growth. Instead, to ensure food safety on hot buffets, you should:
- Avoid using a chafing dish to reheat foods, as chafing dishes are designed to keep already-hot food at a safe temperature, not to bring cold food up to a safe temperature.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperatures at which food is being held to ensure it stays above 74 degrees C (165 degrees F), which is high enough to kill most bacteria.
- Provide clean serving utensils for each dish to prevent cross-contamination.
Regular handwashing, proper food storage, and ensuring appropriate cooking temperatures using a thermometer are all important measures to prevent foodborne diseases.