When can raw TCS foods be ordered to be under-cooked according to food safety regulations?

Raw TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods can be ordered to be under-cooked only with a consumer advisory on the menu. This is crucial for food safety because it informs customers about the risks associated with consuming under-cooked foods, such as the potential for foodborne illnesses. A consumer advisory provides essential information, ensuring that customers are aware of the risks and can make informed choices about their food.

The presence of a consumer advisory is a preventative measure mandated by food safety regulations that helps protect consumers while allowing them the option to enjoy under-cooked dishes. This advisory must clearly state that certain foods may be raw or under-cooked and that consuming them poses a risk of foodborne illness.

Other options such as cooking at high temperatures, sourcing from reputable suppliers, or fulfilling customer requests do not provide the necessary safety assurances required by regulation. While sourcing food from reputable suppliers is important for overall food safety, it does not mitigate the risks associated with under-cooking. Additionally, high-temperature cooking is not applicable in this case, as it contradicts the notion of under-cooking, and simply taking a customer’s request without an advisory does not ensure they are properly informed about potential hazards.