Which of the following foods is NOT classified as a TCS food?

Peanut butter is not classified as a Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) food. TCS foods are those that require time and temperature controls to prevent the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that can cause foodborne illness. These foods typically have high moisture content and are rich in nutrients, making them conducive to bacterial growth if not stored properly.

In contrast, peanut butter has a low moisture content and is less susceptible to bacterial growth, allowing it to be stored safely at room temperature for extended periods. This characteristic does not necessitate strict temperature controls, differentiating it from foods such as cheese, lettuce, and alfalfa sprouts, which do require monitoring to ensure they remain safe for consumption. Cheese, for instance, is high in moisture and can spoil if not kept at suitable temperatures. Similarly, lettuce and alfalfa sprouts have moist environments that can support microbial growth without proper storage conditions.

Therefore, peanut butter stands out as the food item that does not require the same level of strict temperature control, establishing it as the correct choice in this context.