Which of the following indicates TCS food may be spoiled?

The presence of ice crystals or liquid in the package is a strong indication that TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) food may be spoiled. This suggests that the food has likely been subjected to temperature fluctuations during storage or transportation, potentially leading to partial thawing and refreezing. Such conditions can promote the growth of harmful bacteria, compromising the safety and quality of the food.

In contrast, bright packaging can be misleading as it does not necessarily relate to the freshness or safety of the food inside. Similarly, a standard expiration date does not guarantee that food is safe past that date, as it may still be spoiled beforehand due to improper handling or storage. Lastly, a good odor is typically associated with fresh food, but it can be misleading as some spoiled foods may still appear appealing and may not have an off-putting smell. Thus, ice crystals or liquid in the package serve as a clear and actionable indicator of potential spoilage in TCS food.