What should a food handler do with food after it is thawed in the microwave?

When food is thawed in the microwave, it is vital to cook it immediately using conventional cooking equipment. Thawing food in the microwave can lead to uneven heating, which may result in parts of the food being at a temperature that allows bacteria to grow if not cooked right away. Cooking the food promptly ensures that it reaches a safe internal temperature throughout, thus reducing the risk of foodborne illness.

Refrigerating the food immediately after thawing does not eliminate potential bacterial growth that could have occurred if the food was held in the temperature danger zone during the thawing process. Serving it right away can be an option, but it's crucial that the food is heated to the appropriate temperature to ensure safety. Discarding the food would not be necessary if it is intended for immediate cooking. Thus, using conventional cooking equipment right after microwave thawing is the most appropriate practice to ensure food safety.