A shipment of frozen shrimp arrives. Which sign indicates it was thawed and refrozen and should be rejected?
a.The case label lists the harvest date, the lot code, and the processor's plant number
b.Large ice crystals, frozen liquid at the bottom of the case, or water stains on the packaging
c.The outside of the case feels cold and no frost has formed on the freezer shelf
d.The shrimp are frozen rock-solid and rattle loose when the case is tipped
Explanation
Frozen food should be received frozen solid; signs of thawing and refreezing, such as large ice crystals, pooled frozen liquid, or water stains on the case, indicate time-temperature abuse and require rejection. A cold case, rock-hard shrimp that still rattle loose instead of being frozen into a block, and a label listing the harvest date, lot code, and plant number are all good signs, not reasons to reject. Refreezing lets pathogens grow during the thaw period.
Law Reference: FDA Food Code §3-202.11Practice all 500 questions free — no signup required.
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