Which of the following is considered a TCS food?

The baked potato is considered a Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) food because it requires specific temperature control to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. TCS foods are those that can support the rapid growth of pathogens when they are in the temperature danger zone, typically between 41°F and 135°F.

A baked potato, once cooked, maintains moisture and can be a suitable environment for bacteria to thrive, especially if held at unsafe temperatures. Proper handling, storage, and cooking are crucial for TCS foods like baked potatoes to ensure food safety.

In contrast, frozen vegetables, dry pasta, and whole fruits do not require the same level of temperature control to limit bacterial growth. Frozen vegetables can remain stable at low temperatures, dry pasta has a low moisture content that inhibits bacterial growth, and whole fruits generally do not provide an environment conducive to rapid bacteria proliferation when stored correctly. Thus, the baked potato distinctly stands out as a TCS food due to its need for careful temperature management following cooking.