What type of foods are classified as ready-to-eat foods?

Ready-to-eat foods are defined as those that do not require any further cooking or preparation before consumption. This classification includes items that are fully cooked and safe to eat without additional handling or heating. Foods in this category are often consumed cold or at room temperature and typically include items like salads, deli meats, cheeses, and desserts.

This distinction is important in food safety, as ready-to-eat foods carry an increased risk of foodborne illness if they are not handled properly. Since they are meant to be consumed as is, they must be stored correctly to prevent contamination, ensuring that they remain safe for consumption.

The other options either suggest conditions that do not apply to ready-to-eat foods, such as requiring further cooking or needing refrigeration, which does not define the readiness of the food to be eaten. Therefore, the correct response emphasizes the key aspect of these foods being ready for immediate consumption without any additional preparation.