When purchasing foods, what does the term A.P. stand for?

The term A.P. stands for "As purchased," which refers to the condition in which food items are acquired before any processing, trimming, or cooking occurs. This term is crucial in food purchasing and inventory management because it provides a clear understanding of the product's original state, allowing for accurate cost analysis, menu pricing, and portion control.

Knowing the A.P. weight or price is essential for chefs and kitchen managers to calculate yields and understand how much food will actually be usable after preparation. It aids in budgeting and inventory decisions since expenses are tracked based on the purchase price of the whole product, not the final usable portion. For instance, when purchasing fruits or vegetables, their A.P. weight includes skins or seeds, which may not be included in the final dish. Recognizing this distinction helps in managing food costs effectively and ensuring profitability.