How many years must any egg handler maintain business records of egg transactions?

The requirement for maintaining business records of egg transactions for a period of three years is established to ensure traceability and accountability within the egg handling industry. This period allows regulatory authorities to verify compliance with safety standards, grading, and labeling practices, which are essential for consumer protection and food safety.

Keeping records for this time frame means that any issues that arise, such as a food safety hazard or a product recall, can be effectively managed, as there is a reliable history of transactions and handling practices available for review. The three-year duration balances the need for thorough documentation against the practical considerations of businesses managing their records efficiently.

In comparison, shorter record-keeping durations would limit the ability to conduct effective audits and could compromise food safety monitoring efforts, which is crucial in the perishable goods sector like eggs. Therefore, the three-year requirement is a standard that supports public health and ensures that egg handlers operate transparently within the regulated framework.