Which of the following is an important step in ensuring proper food storage?

Labeling food items with dates is an important step in ensuring proper food storage because it helps track the freshness and safety of the food. Proper labeling allows food handlers to know when items should be used or discarded, minimizing the risk of consuming expired or spoiled food. This practice supports the management of inventory and aids in reducing food waste. By maintaining awareness of food dates, food safety can be significantly improved as it prevents the potential for foodborne illness.

In contrast, placing cooked food above raw food could lead to cross-contamination, which is a critical food safety violation. Storing non-food items in the same area could compromise food safety, as contaminants from those items could potentially transfer to food. Keeping refrigerators fully packed can restrict air circulation and may prevent uniform cooling, increasing the risk of food spoilage. Therefore, labeling is essential for effective food storage practices.