Which of the following is considered a TCS food?

TCS, or Time/Temperature Control for Safety, foods are those that require specific time and temperature control to prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure food safety. Deli meat is classified as a TCS food because it is a perishable product that can support the rapid growth of harmful microorganisms if not stored, handled, or cooked properly.

In contrast, rice, while it can be TCS under certain circumstances (e.g., when cooked and kept warm), is typically not regarded as TCS unless it is in a cooked state and not kept at appropriate temperatures. Bananas are generally considered non-TCS foods as they do not support rapid microbial growth, and salt is also non-TCS since it acts as a preservative and does not require temperature control to maintain safety.

Thus, deli meat stands out as a food item that is directly linked to food safety concerns if removed from regulated conditions.