Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 40 - RULES OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Chapter 40-7 - FOOD DIVISION REGULATIONS
Subject 40-7-12 - THE HANDLING, STORAGE, SHUCKING, PACKING, SHIPPING AND\OR SALE OF SHELLFISH
Rule 40-7-12-.14 - Shellfish Sampling and Standards

(1) Sampling and Testing. Samples of shellfish may be taken and examined for bacteriological, chemical, or any other public health reason by agents of the Department at any time or place. Operators of plants, trucks, carriers, stores, restaurants, and other places where shellfish are sold shall furnish samples of shellfish as necessary.

(2) Shellfish offered for sale or possessed that exceed an Escherichia coli Most Probable Number of 230 per 100 grams of sample or total bacteria count of more than 500,000 per gram or contain pathogenic organisms in sufficient numbers to be hazardous to the public health shall be deemed adulterated by the Department. Shellfish contaminated by any other substance, which renders it unsafe for human consumption, shall be deemed adulterated by the Department.

(3) In addition to the labeling requirements in Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish, at Chapter X.06, all containers of shucked oyster meats processed or distributed in commerce shall have permanently recorded on the principal display panel, all information required by 21 CFR 101 and the name of each such food as specified in the applicable definition and standard of identity prescribed in 21 CFR 161.130 to 161.140, inclusive. The standard of fill for containers of shucked oyster meats shall meet NCWM (National Conference of Weights and Measures) recommended standards as determined in NIST Handbook 130.