Which situation would require immediate action in a food service operation to ensure safety?

Hot food held longer than allowed time is a situation that requires immediate action to ensure safety because it poses a significant risk of foodborne illness. The safe handling of hot food is crucial, as bacteria can multiply rapidly when food is kept in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F for extended periods. If hot food exceeds the safe holding time, it may not only lose its quality but could also become a breeding ground for harmful pathogens, leading to potential food poisoning cases.

Addressing this situation quickly by either discarding the food or reheating it to the appropriate temperature is necessary to prevent any health risks to customers. Proper training and monitoring in food service operations are essential to maintain food safety standards and protect public health.