What is the first step to take if a foodborne illness is suspected?

Reporting to the supervisor and documenting the incident is the first step when a foodborne illness is suspected for several important reasons. This action ensures that the problem is escalated properly within the organization, allowing for an informed assessment of the situation. By informing a supervisor, the issue can be addressed by someone with the authority to initiate further investigation or implement necessary immediate measures to protect public health.

Documentation of the incident is critical as it creates an official record of the concern, which can be useful for identifying trends, conducting further investigations, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. Properly documenting the details can also aid in determining the source of the contamination and help prevent future occurrences.

Taking this step before any other actions like disposing of food or informing customers ensures that the response to the potential outbreak is coordinated and effective, based on established protocols in the food safety management system.