What should a staff member do first if a customer complains about foodborne illness?

When a customer complains about foodborne illness, it is essential to take their complaint seriously and gather information as the first step. This approach ensures that the issue is acknowledged and that the customer feels heard and valued. By collecting details about their symptoms, the food they consumed, and any relevant timeframes, the staff member can help identify potential sources of the problem. This information is crucial for the establishment to investigate the claim properly, enhance food safety practices, and potentially prevent further incidents.

Taking complaints seriously not only aids in addressing immediate concerns but also contributes to a culture of food safety and customer care. It shows a commitment to maintaining high standards and can help protect the business from further reputational harm or legal issues arising from food safety violations. The other options do not prioritize customer communication or effective information gathering, which are critical in such situations.