Tuna Safety Regulations & Codes in Memphis, TN

Memphis-Specific Tuna Handling & Temperature Requirements

The Shelby County Health Department requires all raw tuna to be stored at 41°F or below, with written temperature logs maintained daily. Cooked tuna must reach an internal temperature of 145°F and be consumed or discarded within 4 hours if left at room temperature (per FDA Food Code adopted locally). For sushi-grade tuna served raw, establishments must use tuna that has been commercially frozen to -4°F for 7 days or -31°F for 15 hours to kill parasites—documentation from suppliers is required during inspections. Memphis inspectors specifically verify ice machine sanitation and separate storage from other proteins to prevent cross-contamination.

Sourcing, Labeling & Supplier Documentation

Memphis food service operations must source tuna only from FDA-approved suppliers and maintain traceability documentation (invoice dates, supplier name, product origin). The Shelby County Health Department requires all tuna deliveries to be received at 41°F or below with timestamped receiving logs. Establishments serving raw or undercooked tuna must display a consumer advisory on menus in 14-point font or larger, as mandated by Tennessee state law. Suppliers' certificates of analysis proving proper freezing protocols must be available for inspector review; missing documentation is a common violation citation in Memphis.

Inspection Focus Areas & Common Violations

Shelby County Health Department inspectors prioritize tuna storage separation, temperature monitoring consistency, and parasite-kill documentation during unannounced visits. The most frequently cited violations involve inadequate cooling procedures (tuna thawing at room temperature), cross-contact with allergens, and missing supplier freezing certificates. Improper date-marking of opened tuna and exceeding the 24-hour shelf life for thawed product are enforcement triggers. Any tuna served above 41°F without proper hot-holding (145°F+) results in immediate corrective action orders and potential closure.

Get real-time Memphis food safety alerts—stay compliant.

Real-time food safety alerts from 25+ government sources. AI-scored by urgency. Less than one bad meal a month — $4.99/mo.