Ready-to-eat TCS foods must be labeled with what date?

Ready-to-eat TCS (Time/Temperature Controlled for Safety) foods must be labeled with the date they must be thrown out to ensure food safety and proper management of food inventory. This labeling practice is important because TCS foods are prone to bacterial growth if they are not stored at the correct temperatures or consumed within a safe time frame.

By indicating the discard date, food handlers can effectively monitor the freshness of the food and prevent the risk of serving spoiled or unsafe items, which can cause foodborne illnesses. This practice also aids in maintaining compliance with health codes and regulations that govern food safety in preparation and service environments.

The other options do not provide the information necessary to ensure food safety in the same way. For example, the date of purchase, while relevant for inventory tracking, does not inform staff about the safety limitations for consumption. Similarly, the date of cooking may not reflect the true shelf life after the food has been prepared, and the storage date can be misleading if the food item is not properly monitored throughout its hold time. Thus, labeling with a clear discard date directly addresses safety concerns related to food handling practices.