What is the first step to take when receiving a shipment of perishable goods?

The first step to take when receiving a shipment of perishable goods is to check the temperatures of all perishable items. This step is crucial because maintaining the proper temperature is essential for ensuring the safety and quality of perishable products. If items are received at unsafe temperatures, there may already be a risk of bacterial growth or spoilage, which can compromise food safety.

By verifying that the perishable items are kept at the appropriate temperature during shipment, you can prevent potential health hazards associated with improperly stored foods. Additionally, this immediate inspection helps determine whether any corrective actions need to be taken, such as rejecting the shipment if the temperature reads outside acceptable limits.

The other options—inspecting packaging for damage, sorting by expiration date, and recording delivery time—are important steps in the receiving process, but they do not directly address the critical safety aspect associated with temperature control that is vital for perishable goods.