The FIFO (First In, First Out) method for restocking food involves placing newly received food items behind the older stock so that the oldest items are used or sold first. This system ensures that foods with the soonest expiration or best before dates are kept at the front, making them the first to be used or taken. When restocking, the older food is positioned at the front, and the newer food is stored at the back to maintain proper rotation and minimize waste. To practically use the FIFO method for food restocking:
- Identify products with the earliest expiration dates.
- Remove expired or damaged items.
- Place the older items at the front of the storage area (shelves, fridges, cupboards).
- Place newly received items behind the older stock.
- Always use the front-most items first before moving to the newer stock.
This method not only reduces food waste but also ensures food safety, maintains product quality, and helps comply with regulations like HACCP by regularly rotating stock and checking for expiration.
