During receipt of perishable deliveries, which action should you take if issues are found?

• A. Accept the item and keep it on hold
• B. Document the issue and notify the supplier
• C. Reject or return the item, document the issue, and notify the supplier
• D. Return to supplier but do not document

Answer: (C)

When receiving perishable deliveries, issues must be handled promptly to protect safety and quality. The best approach is to reject or return the item, thoroughly document the issue (what was wrong, where found, quantities, lot/pack date, temperatures if relevant, etc.), and notify the supplier. Rejecting or returning stops potentially spoiled or unsafe product from entering storage or service, and the documentation creates a traceable record for quality control. Notifying the supplier initiates corrective action, such as replacements or credits, and helps prevent recurrence. Accepting with issues or holding without proper documentation fails to address safety, risks spoilage, and leaves no clear trail for accountability.