What is the safe temperature to hold hot foods?

Holding hot foods at the correct temperature is crucial to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria, which can occur when food is held at unsafe temperatures. The guideline of maintaining hot foods at 135°F or higher is recommended by food safety authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This temperature is sufficient to keep the food safe by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.

While temperatures higher than 135°F can also be effective for keeping foods safe, they are not necessary to ensure safety. Maintaining hot foods at 135°F provides a balance between food safety and energy efficiency. It allows foods to stay warm enough for safe consumption while minimizing the risk of overcooking or drying out the food, which can occur at higher temperatures.

This standard also is specifically designed to ensure that food remains palatable and safe for consumers without excessively heating the items, which can affect their quality.