What does a period or nothing at the end of a code citation represent?

A period or nothing at the end of a code citation signifies a core item. In food safety regulations and codes, core items are fundamental aspects that are essential for maintaining safe food handling and operations. They typically cover important practices that, if not adhered to, could lead to significant health risks or violations. The clarity of these citations with a period or absence of additional notations helps distinguish them from other items that may have different compliance weights or implications. Understanding that a core item is essential for ensuring effective food safety allows food service professionals to prioritize their compliance efforts effectively.