Proper Date Marking and Disposition

JULY 2024

Date marking is a way to control bacteria that grows at refrigeration temperatures.

Proper date marking for Ready To Eat, Temperature Control for Safety foods:

• When is date marking requried?
  • The first day of food preparation or opening of a container is referred to as 'Day 1.'
  • If food is to be used or discarded within 24 hours, no date marking is required.
• Food shall be marked with a date to indicate when it needs to be consumed, sold, or discarded.
  • This means the day the food is prepared or opened plus six days. Example: Food prepared on July 1 must be discarded on July 7.

For frozen foods, refer to this flow chart from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing.