How long must shellfish tags be kept after the product is used?

Shellfish tags must be kept for a minimum of 90 days after the product is used. This requirement is important for traceability and food safety. Keeping the tags provides a record of where the shellfish originated and helps in tracking any potential foodborne illness that may arise from the consumption of shellfish.

If an incident occurs involving sick customers, the tags allow health inspectors to trace the shellfish back to the specific distributor and source. This ensures that any issues can be addressed promptly and accurately, protecting the health of consumers. The 90-day period reflects the time frame needed for thorough record-keeping without compromising safety, thereby fostering accountability and transparency in the food supply chain.