Why should food items be stored at least 6 inches from the floor?

Food items should be stored at least 6 inches from the floor primarily to avoid contamination. This practice is critical in maintaining food safety standards. Keeping food elevated helps reduce the risk of exposure to dirt, moisture, pests, and other potential contaminants that are often found on the floor.

When food is stored too close to the ground, it is more susceptible to splashes, spills, and cross-contamination from cleaning activities or foot traffic. By storing food at least 6 inches above the floor, food handlers can better protect the integrity and safety of food products, thus reducing the chance of foodborne illness.

While other considerations like accessibility and visibility are important in food handling, the primary concern is ensuring the food remains uncontaminated, which is essential for public health and safety in food service environments.