Final answer:
Buckets containing acid-treated potatoes must be emptied, cleaned, and sanitized to ensure food safety and prevent contamination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to best practices in handling food, specifically potatoes, that have been treated with an acid to preserve freshness. These buckets, as well as any others that were used during the previous shift, should be emptied, cleaned, and sanitized to prevent any potential contamination. Proper food handling is crucial for health and safety in any food service or preparation environment. When dealing with acidic foods or any foods that might spoil, it's important to avoid cross-contamination and bacterial growth by ensuring all containers are properly maintained.