What should be done if a customer reports a foodborne illness after eating at the restaurant?

When a customer reports a foodborne illness after eating at the restaurant, the appropriate response is to investigate and document the complaint. This approach is of paramount importance for several reasons.

First, an investigation ensures that any potential health risks are identified and addressed promptly. By taking the report seriously and looking into the situation, the restaurant can determine whether there is a legitimate cause for concern, potentially preventing further incidents or outbreaks.

Second, documentation is essential for maintaining records that can be reviewed later. This information can be useful for monitoring patterns, analyzing food safety practices, and providing an accurate account if health authorities need to be involved.

In contrast, ignoring the report would not only neglect the customer's concerns but could also lead to further health risks. Publicly apologizing on social media could escalate the situation without genuinely addressing the issue at hand, and offering a free meal may seem like a quick fix but does not address the underlying problem of food safety and could undermine the severity of the customer's complaint. Therefore, the systematic approach of investigating and documenting the incident is the most responsible action.