What is the purpose of a consumer advisory in food safety?

The purpose of a consumer advisory in food safety is to provide a written statement that informs consumers about the risks associated with certain menu items, particularly those that may be undercooked or raw. This advisory is crucial as it helps to ensure that consumers are aware of potential foodborne illness risks, allowing them to make informed choices about what they eat. It typically covers items like raw or undercooked meats, eggs, or seafood, which can pose health risks if not handled or cooked properly. By disclosing these risks, food establishments uphold their responsibility towards consumer safety and promote awareness, ultimately reducing the likelihood of foodborne illnesses.

The other options, while related to food safety, do not serve the specific purpose of a consumer advisory. Summaries of health inspections provide information on the general cleanliness and food handling practices of an establishment but do not specifically address consumer health risks associated with food items. Advertisements focus on marketing menu items, and lists of ingredients help with food transparency but do not specifically warn consumers about the safety risks linked to food preparation or consumption.