Can we save food that has been on a self-service bar?

Most foods that are on display on a self-service bar must be thrown out at the end of service.  The only exception to this is that unopened, non-potentially hazardous, commercially packaged foods can be saved and re-served on a later day.  

Examples of foods that can be saved and reserved include bags of chips, commercially packaged muffins, single-service condiment packets, and juice boxes.  If the package is compromised in any way, such as having a tear, rip, or excessively dirty, then the food must be thrown out. 

This requirement is based on section .2611 Reserving Food in the NC Foodservice Rules, which are available at: www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/ehs/Rules/t15a-18a.26.pdf

Revised:  February 12, 2009; Originally prepared:  June 13, 2007

If you have questions, contact Dr. Angela Fraser, Associate Professor/Food Safety Education Specialist, Clemson University, Clemson, SC.

Clemson University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

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