What indicates that food requires refrigeration?

Food labeled as TCS, or Time/Temperature Control for Safety, indicates that it requires refrigeration to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. TCS foods are typically those that are more prone to spoilage and require specific temperature controls to maintain safety. These foods include items like dairy products, cooked meats, and cut fruits and vegetables, which can harbor pathogens if not kept at proper temperatures.

The other options do not inherently imply the need for refrigeration. Heated foods may need to be kept warm for service rather than refrigerated. Foods in a can are often shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration until opened. Similarly, food that is packaged may be preserved enough to not require refrigeration, depending on the type of packaging and the contents. Therefore, the identification of TCS foods is critical for understanding which items necessitate refrigeration to ensure food safety.