What is the purpose of a time-temperature indicator?

• A. It monitors temperatures during transport
• B. It measures product weight
• C. It indicates the product color
• D. It shows the expiration date

Answer: (A)

Time-temperature indicators are used to show whether a product has experienced temperatures outside safe ranges during transport by recording the cumulative time-temperature history. This visual signal helps confirm whether the cold chain has been maintained or if temperature abuse occurred, which is crucial for ensuring the safety of perishable foods. They aren’t meant to measure current weight, indicate product color as their primary purpose, or display an expiration date; their main role is to alert handlers to past temperature conditions that could compromise safety.