What is the primary characteristic of the FIFO food rotation strategy?

The oldest food in storage is used first

Food rotation is a crucial operational aspect of maintaining both safety and quality across any inventory, whether domestic or commercial. The specific system known as FIFO, which stands for First-In, First-Out, mandates a clear usage sequence. This principle requires that the product which has been in storage for the longest duration—the oldest item—must be the first one consumed or utilized. As that oldest stock is depleted, newer supplies are added to the storage area behind it, effectively pushing them forward in line for future use. Adhering strictly to FIFO prevents any item from remaining in reserve indefinitely, thereby mitigating the risk of food expiring, spoiling, or losing unacceptable levels of quality due to excessive storage time.