What is the required temperature for hot water sanitizing of utensils?

The required temperature for hot water sanitizing of utensils is 170°F. At this temperature, hot water effectively kills microorganisms that can contaminate food and cause foodborne illnesses. The process of sanitizing involves exposing utensils to high temperatures for a specific duration, usually around 30 seconds, to ensure that harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens are eliminated.

Maintaining this specific temperature is crucial to achieving proper sanitization without causing damage to the utensils. Higher temperatures may not be necessary for sanitization and could lead to potential hazards, such as burns or warping of certain materials. Therefore, using 170°F is a standard in the food safety industry for ensuring that utensils are adequately sanitized and safe for food contact.