FIFO Frequently Asked Questions
What does FIFO mean?
FIFO (first in, first out) is a methodology employed by the food service industry to ensure the food products that were stocked first are used first. The FIFO method is used to efficiently rotate stock and ensure that food is always fresh and safe to consume.
What are the benefits of FIFO?
The FIFO method has many benefits, including:
- Eliminate foodborne illnesses
- Control kitchen costs
- Reduce food waste
- Protect customers from health hazards
- Keep food inventory organized and fresh
Food or stock rotation is critical for eliminating foodborne illness and controlling commercial kitchen costs. The concept can be as simple as making sure warm water or soda bottles being pulled from stock are placed behind the current cold beverages in a display cooler so that the customer reaching in for a beverage bottle is sure to get the chilled product. The same idea applies to any food being replenished into an existing supply. For example, the squeeze bottle of ketchup or syrup sitting on restaurant tables. If new syrup or ketchup is added to the top of a bottle that is currently half full, the bottom contents remain on the bottom. The unfortunate customer who may eventually get to the bottom of the container will find himself with an old product which may or may not pose a health hazard.
What can be done to ensure the FIFO principle is utilized?
There are several products that make FIFO easy to employ in commercial kitchens. The products usually fall into two categories – labels and bottles.
FIFO Labels
FIFO Labels may be placed on containers of food that are prepped in advance, ensuring that the date is clearly marked on product.
Can I print my own FIFO label sheets?
It's not recommended. Our FIFO label sheets were designed to withstand 1,000 industrial washes. Using a marker would work, but the labels last longer than markers.
FIFO Bottles
FIFO bottles are a squeezable container that can dispense a variety of condiments, sauces, dressings, or other toppings. The bottles are filled from the top and dispense product from the bottom, letting gravity naturally take care of FIFO. Rest assured, the bottles are leak-proof and have a wide mouth for easy filling.
Dot It carries a variety of sizes, the most popular being 16 oz. and 20 oz. Approved by the NSF International (formerly known as National Sanitation Foundation), these bottles are dishwasher safe.
How Much Can You Save With FIFO Bottles?
It depends on your kitchen use, but most customers report 15% sauce savings. By not having to bang on bottles to get thicker sauces out, bottles last 3-4 times longer than alternatives.
Are FIFO BOTTLES™ NSF-approved?
Yes. NSF is a public health and safety company that regulates the food service industry.
Can my FIFO products be customized for my business?
Absolutely! If you’re in need of a custom FIFO solution, call us at 800-642-3687 or email sales@dotit.com to learn more. Check out our website for all FIFO products we currently stock or call us for more information.