Final answer:
Refuse the contaminated shipment and return it to the supplier, clean and sanitize the affected area, document the incident, and notify the supplier. Inspect the entire facility for further contamination as a precaution.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a food handler receiving a shipment observes signs of pests, such as egg cases and insect body parts, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent potential foodborne diseases. The shipment should be refused and sent back to the supplier as the presence of these contaminants suggests a serious risk of food adulteration.
The area where the contaminated shipment was discovered should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to remove any remaining contaminants.
Additionally, it is important to document the incident and notify the supplier about the issue, providing specifics about the contaminants observed. This could prevent future incidents and ensure that the integrity of the food supply is maintained. A full inspection of the facility should also be conducted to ensure that the pest issue is not more widespread.
Examples of serious health risks associated with this kind of contamination include the spread of bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can spike in ground beef, bagged lettuce, eggs, and chicken. Proper food storage and handling protocols must be rigorously followed to safeguard against these risks.