What food category do all foods of animal origin fall under in TCS?

All foods of animal origin fall under the category of potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) in time and temperature control for safety (TCS) systems. This is because these foods often provide a favorable environment for the growth of pathogens due to their high moisture content, protein levels, and neutral pH. Foods like meat, dairy, eggs, and seafood are particularly susceptible to bacterial growth when not stored or cooked properly.

As a result, proper handling, cooking, and storage are crucial for animal-origin foods to prevent foodborne illnesses. These practices are in place to ensure that these potentially hazardous foods are kept within safe temperature ranges throughout their preparation process, minimizing the risk of contamination and illness. This highlights the importance of managing time and temperature effectively for products that can support pathogenic growth, making animal-origin foods critical in the context of food safety and health regulations.