Which labeling requirement applies to TCS foods?

• A. Temperature control date
• B. Ingredient list
• C. Date marking
• D. No labeling required

Answer: (C)

Date marking is the labeling requirement that applies to TCS foods. When TCS foods are prepared and held for more than 24 hours, they must be labeled with the date by which they should be sold or discarded. This helps ensure safe storage and prevents serving food past its safe time window. Typically, foods held at 41°F (5°C) or below should be discarded after seven days, counting the day of preparation as day one. Temperature control date isn’t a standard label, and ingredient lists apply to packaged ingredients rather than internal labeling for held TCS foods. No labeling is not acceptable for TCS foods.