What kind of fish products are considered TCS foods?

TCS, or Time/Temperature Control for Safety, foods are those that require certain time and temperature controls to ensure they remain safe to eat. Fresh fish and shellfish fit this definition because they are highly perishable and can support the growth of harmful microorganisms if not stored and handled properly.

When fresh fish and shellfish are not kept at the correct temperatures, they can quickly deteriorate, leading to foodborne illness. This is why they are categorized as TCS foods, necessitating proper refrigeration, cooking, and serving practices to maintain safety and quality.

In contrast, options like canned fish products are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration until opened, smoked fish can also have specific requirements, but often it is treated differently in terms of its preservation methods, and fish sticks typically have been processed and cooked, making them less susceptible to immediate food safety risks compared to raw seafood.