What is a primary concern for foods categorized as TCS?

Foods categorized as TCS, or Time/Temperature Control for Safety foods, pose a primary concern due to the potential for rapid bacterial growth. These foods require strict control of time and temperature to prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses.

TCS foods are typically moist, rich in nutrients, and have a neutral pH, which creates an optimal environment for bacteria to thrive if they are not kept at the proper temperatures. This means they must be stored correctly—either by keeping them cold at 41°F (5°C) or below, or hot at 135°F (57°C) or above. Understanding this is crucial for food safety practices, as failing to control the temperature of these foods can lead to significant health risks due to bacterial growth.

While shelf stability, market price, and cooking methods are considerations in the food service industry, they do not specifically relate to the immediate safety concern posed by TCS foods. Their susceptibility to temperature abuse is what predominantly defines their categorization and the need for stringent handling protocols.