Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

Food service facilities may serve raw beef to customers only if:

1. The beef has been frozen at a temperature below -35°F

2. The customer has requested the beef to be served raw

3. A consumer advisory is clearly displayed

4. The facility serves only free-range, grass-fed beef

The correct answer is: A consumer advisory is clearly displayed

Serving raw beef in food service facilities is subject to specific regulations to ensure customer safety. A consumer advisory is a critical component when offering such items, as it informs customers about the risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked meats. This advisory typically outlines potential foodborne illness risks, highlighting that certain populations may be at a higher risk. When a facility provides a consumer advisory, it allows customers to make informed choices about their meals, especially regarding high-risk foods like raw beef. This practice aligns with food safety regulations, which aim to protect public health while allowing customers the autonomy to enjoy foods that they may desire. The other options may suggest practices or conditions that could be relevant in discussions about food safety, but they do not encompass the necessary regulatory requirement of consumer advisories that must be in place when serving raw beef. For instance, freezing beef at extremely low temperatures could reduce potential pathogens but does not eliminate the need for informing customers of risks. A customer request does not negate the need for advisories either, as it remains the facility's responsibility to communicate potential hazards. Finally, the classification of beef as free-range or grass-fed does not affect the safety concerns related to serving it raw.