What should be done with food that has a strange odor or appearance?

Food that displays a strange odor or appearance poses a potential health risk, as these changes can indicate spoilage or contamination. Discarding the food immediately is the safest and most responsible action to take. This helps prevent foodborne illnesses that can arise from consuming spoiled or unsafe food.

Cooking the food thoroughly, refrigerating it, or tasting it before serving are not advisable options because they do not adequately address the potential hazards associated with the food's unusual characteristics. Cooking may not eliminate all harmful pathogens that can be present. Refrigeration may prolong the life of food that is already unsafe, and tasting can lead to serious health risks if the food is contaminated. Therefore, disposing of the food protects consumers and ensures food safety standards are upheld.