How long must shellfish tags be kept after the shellfish has been used up?

The retention of shellfish tags for a period of 90 days after the shellfish has been consumed is a critical practice for food safety and traceability. This requirement serves multiple purposes.

Firstly, keeping the tags for this duration allows for the tracking of the source of the shellfish, which is essential in the event of a foodborne illness outbreak. If consumers fall ill after eating shellfish, health authorities need to trace back to the harvesting location to determine the cause and protect public health by recalling potentially contaminated products.

Secondly, maintaining proper records of shellfish tags helps ensure compliance with health regulations, aiding restaurants and food establishments in demonstrating that they are following best practices. This documentation can serve as vital evidence in case of inspections or audits by health departments.

The tag must have information such as the harvest date, harvest location, and the name and address of the supplier, all of which can be crucial during investigations. By adhering to the 90-day storage requirement, food handlers can contribute significantly to the safety of the food supply and the health of consumers.