What was the error made at closing if the station surfaces were not properly cleaned?

The identification of the error as related to the closure process stems from the importance of maintaining a clean and safe food preparation environment. Properly cleaning all surfaces of the station is critical in preventing cross-contamination and ensuring that the establishment adheres to health and safety regulations. If the station surfaces are not properly cleaned, it directly indicates a lapse in the cleaning protocol during the closing procedure.

This negligence can lead to food safety issues, which may compromise customer health and can result in negative inspections or complaints. Furthermore, the operation's overall hygiene standards are reflected in the condition of these surfaces, making this error particularly severe in the context of food service.

Given that the other options involve different aspects of kitchen management—like food storage, utensil sanitation, and inventory accuracy—they do not address the immediate issue of surface cleanliness that is directly linked to the closing practices of the station. Hence, identifying the error as the failure to clean all surfaces accurately captures the critical oversight in the closing procedure.