What is a "time-temperature indicator"?

A time-temperature indicator is specifically designed to monitor the temperature of foods over time, which is critical for ensuring food safety. These devices can alert food handlers if the temperature of a food product has been outside the safe temperature range for an unsafe period, thus potentially indicating spoilage or growth of harmful microorganisms. By providing a visual or audible signal, these indicators help prevent foodborne illnesses by ensuring that food is kept at proper temperatures throughout the storage and handling process.

This monitoring capability is essential in settings like restaurants, grocery stores, and catering operations, where food must be kept at safe temperatures to minimize risks. An expiration date device focuses on how long a product can be used after production rather than assessing temperature exposure, humidity devices measure moisture levels rather than temperature, and cooking temperature control devices are used only during the cooking process, not during food storage or transportation.