What is a TCS food?

A TCS food is a Time/Temperature Control of Safety Food. These foods are capable of supporting rapid and progressive growth of infectious or toxigenic microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses.

TCS foods include:

- Milk and milk products

- Eggs and egg products

- Meat and poultry

- Fish and shellfish

- Crustaceans

- Cut melons

- Sprouted seeds

- Tofu and other soy products

- Baked potatoes

- Cooked rice and pasta

- Bean sprouts

- Sliced tomatoes

These foods must be kept at the proper temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. The danger zone is between 41°F and 135°F. TCS foods should be kept at or below 41°F or at or above 135°F.