15A NCAC 18A .0615      SHELLFISH COOLING

(a) For shellstock that has not been refrigerated prior to processing, shucked meats and in-shell product shall be chilled to an internal temperature of 45°F or less within three hours of shucking or processing.

(b) For shellstock that has been refrigerated prior to processing, shucked meats and in-shell product shall be chilled to an internal temperature of 45°F or less within four hours after removal from refrigeration.

(c) If heat shock is used, once shellstock is shucked, the shucked shellfish meats shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F or less within two hours from the time of heat shock.

(d) Shucked and packed shellfish shall be stored in covered containers at an ambient temperature of 45°F or less or covered in ice.

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

Eff. February 1, 1987;

Amended Eff. April 1, 1997;

Readopted Eff. April 1, 2024.