How many inches off the floor must food be stored to ensure safety?

Food must be stored at least 6 inches or 15 centimeters off the floor to ensure safety in a food service operation. This height helps prevent contamination from floor debris, moisture, and pests, which can compromise the safety and integrity of the food being stored. Storing food at this height also allows for proper airflow and sanitation practices, making it easier to clean the floors without risking food safety.

Other options suggest storing at varying heights that do not meet the established safety standards. For example, storing food only 3 inches off the floor may not provide adequate protection from contaminants that can easily reach that height, while heights such as 12 inches or 4 inches are unnecessarily excessive or insufficient, respectively, based on food safety regulations. Adhering to the 6-inch standard ensures compliance with health standards and promotes safe food handling practices.