What is a possible consequence of not following food safety guidelines?

Not following food safety guidelines can lead to an increased risk of foodborne illness outbreaks. These guidelines are designed to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure that food is handled, cooked, and stored safely. When these protocols are neglected, harmful pathogens can thrive on food products, potentially leading to illness in consumers. Foodborne illnesses can originate from inadequate cooking temperatures, improper storage, or cross-contamination among food items, which are all parts of food safety practices. Thus, one of the primary roles of adhering to food safety guidelines is to protect public health and prevent outbreaks, which makes this option the most accurate consequence of failing to comply with food safety standards.