What should TCS food not be date marked for more than?

The recommended timeframe for date marking TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) food is a maximum of 7 days. This guideline is in place to ensure food safety, as TCS foods are particularly susceptible to bacterial growth if not handled or stored correctly. The 7-day marking helps food service establishments manage inventory effectively and minimize the risk of serving food that may have gone bad.

When TCS foods are stored, they must be monitored closely to ensure they are consumed or discarded within this timeframe. Beyond 7 days, even when stored at safe temperatures, the risk of foodborne illness increases as pathogens can multiply to levels that can cause illness. Therefore, adhering to this date marking requirement is critical in maintaining food safety standards in any food service setting.