12 | Protect Food in all Phases of Preparation Using HACCP Guidelines Figure 12.3 Safe Food Handling: Food Preparation 135˚
100 120 140
41˚
20 40 60 80
0 At or Above 135˚F
Hold hot foods at or above 135˚F to prevent growth of microorganisms. Cook food to recommended time/temperature standards to destroy microorganisms.
41˚F - 135˚F Hazard Zone
At or Below 41˚F
Hold cold foods at or below 41˚F to slow bacterial growth and extend shelf life.
Source: FDA, 2023a
temperature falls into an unsafe range, immediately follow the procedures for reheating previously cooked food. When restocking hot food products, finish one pan completely before bringing in a refill; do not pour new product on top of older product.
Cold Holding
Cold food must be held at or below 41°F to slow down the growth of bacteria. Temperature measuring devices must be used in any refrigerator or freezer storing TCS food (FDA, 2023a). This device should be clearly visible, and temperatures should be regularly logged.
Special considerations are required for using ice as a coolant. Packaged food should not be stored in direct contact with ice or water if the entry of water is possible due to the packaging or its location in the ice or water. Ice that has been used as a coolant may not be used as food or food ingredient. Unpackaged food may not be stored in direct contact with undrained ice. Exceptions to this include:
• Whole, raw fruits or vegetables—such as celery or carrots— may be immersed in ice or water.
Ice used as a coolant must not be reused as food, and unpackaged food cannot be stored in direct contact with undrained ice.
• Raw chicken and raw fish that are received immersed in ice in shipping containers may remain in that condition while in storage awaiting preparation or service.