What is the maximum time food can be held in the temperature danger zone?

What is the maximum time food can be held in the temperature danger zone?

• A. 2 hours
• B. 4 hours
• C. 6 hours
• D. 8 hours

Answer: (B)

Food can be held in the temperature danger zone, which ranges from 41°F to 135°F, for a maximum of 4 hours. This time limit is critical because bacteria can multiply rapidly in this temperature range, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Holding food in this zone for longer than 4 hours can lead to unsafe levels of bacterial growth, making the food potentially hazardous to consume. In practice, after 4 hours, food should either be discarded or cooked and served in such a way that it reaches safe temperatures to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Adhering to this guideline helps ensure food safety and protects public health.

Food can be held in the temperature danger zone, which ranges from 41°F to 135°F, for a maximum of 4 hours. This time limit is critical because bacteria can multiply rapidly in this temperature range, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Holding food in this zone for longer than 4 hours can lead to unsafe levels of bacterial growth, making the food potentially hazardous to consume.

In practice, after 4 hours, food should either be discarded or cooked and served in such a way that it reaches safe temperatures to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Adhering to this guideline helps ensure food safety and protects public health.