Memphis Food Service Temperature Logging Compliance Checklist

Tennessee & Shelby County Temperature Requirements

Memphis food service establishments must comply with the Tennessee Food Code (Chapter 0100-04-14), which aligns with the FDA Food Code. Hot food must maintain 135°F or above; cold food must stay at 41°F or below. Shelby County Health Department inspectors verify these temperatures using calibrated thermometers during unannounced inspections. All temperature logs must be maintained on-site for a minimum of 7 days and be immediately available for review. Tennessee requires establishments to designate a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) who oversees temperature monitoring and HACCP documentation.

Core Temperature Logging Checklist Items

Document temperatures at least twice daily (morning opening and mid-shift) for each cooler, freezer, hot hold unit, and warmer. Record the date, time, temperature reading, and initials of the staff member who performed the check. Use a calibrated thermometer (calibrate every 30 days using ice water or boiling water method). Maintain a written log or use a digital system approved by Shelby County Health. Include corrective action documentation whenever temperature excursions occur—note what went wrong, when you discovered it, and what steps were taken to fix it. Ensure logs are legible and stored in a clean, accessible location.

Common Memphis Inspection Violations to Avoid

Inspectors frequently cite establishments for missing temperature logs, falsified dates/times, or logs that lack staff initials. Blank entries or logs with weeks of gaps are red flags that trigger follow-up inspections. Failure to document corrective actions when equipment malfunctions (e.g., a walk-in cooler reaching 50°F) is a serious violation. Not having a calibrated probe thermometer on hand during inspection, or using inconsistent thermometer types across different units, also raises concerns. The absence of a Certified Food Protection Manager responsible for oversight can result in critical violations.

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