Can we save food that has beed on a self-service bar?

Most foods that are on display on a self-service bar must be thrown out at the end of service. The only exception to this is that unopened, non-potentially hazardous, commercially packaged foods can be saved and re-served on a later day.

Examples of foods that can be saved and reserved include bags of chips, commercially packaged muffins, single-service condiment packets, and juice boxes. If the package is compromised in any way, such as having a tear, rip, or excessively dirty, then the food must be thrown out.

Prepared:  July 2009

If you have questions, contact Dr. Anglea Fraser, Associate Professor/Food Safety Education Specialist, Clemson University, Clemson, SC.


Clemson University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of age, color, disability,gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

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