What action should be taken for food that has an unusual odor?

When food has an unusual odor, the safest action is to discard it, as it may be spoiled. An unusual odor is often one of the first signs that food has begun to spoil or is unsafe to eat. Spoilage can occur due to the growth of bacteria, mold, or yeast, which can produce off-putting smells. This is particularly important to recognize because consuming spoiled food can lead to foodborne illnesses, which pose significant health risks.

While refrigerating spoiled food might seem like a reasonable temporary measure, it does not resolve the underlying safety issue. Separating it from fresh foods might prevent cross-contamination, but it still doesn't make the spoiled item safe. Additionally, visual appearances can be misleading; food that looks normal may still be unsafe if it has developed a harmful odor. Overall, when encountering unusual odors in food, the best practice is to err on the side of caution and dispose of the food to ensure safety.