15A NCAC 18A .0614      CONTAINERS

(a)  Containers used for transporting shucked shellfish shall be made from food-safe materials. These containers shall not be reused for packing shellfish.

(b)  The shucker-packer's or repacker's name and address and certification number shall be permanently and visibly recorded on the label of each container used for shucked shellfish.

(c)  Any container of shucked shellfish that has a capacity of 64 fluid ounces or more shall include the words "DATE SHUCKED" followed by the date shucked permanently recorded on the lid and sidewall or bottom of the container. The date shall consist of either the abbreviation for the month and number of the day of the month or the Julian format (YDDD), the last digit of the four-digit year and the three-digit number corresponding to the day of the year.

(d)  Any container of shucked shellfish that has a capacity of less than 64 fluid ounces shall include the words "SELL BY" or "BEST IF USED BY" followed by a date when the product will reach the end of its projected shelf life. The date shall consist of the abbreviation for the month and number of the day of the month.

(e)  For fresh frozen shellfish, the year shall be added to the date for non-Julian format. If fresh frozen, the container shall be labeled as frozen in equal size type immediately adjacent to the type of shellfish. If a frozen container of shucked shellfish is thawed and repacked, the container shall be labeled as previously frozen.

(f)  Each container of shucked shellfish shall include a consumer advisory. The following statement, or an equivalent statement, shall be included on all containers: "Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions."

(g)  No person shall use containers bearing a certification number other than the number assigned to him or her.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 113-134; 113-182; 113-221.2; 143B-289.52;

Eff. February 1, 1987;

Amended Eff. August 1, 1998; February 1, 1997; December 1, 1987;

Readopted Eff. April 1, 2024.