Understanding Improper Holding Temperatures

National Food Safety Education Month - Week #2: Understanding Improper Holding Temperatures

Posted on 09/10/2024

National Food Safety Education Month - Week #2: Understanding Improper Holding Temperatures

Why It Matters: Foodborne illnesses are more common than many realize and can cause serious health issues. Harmful bacteria and viruses thrive in what's known as the "danger zone"—between 41°F and 135°F. If food is left in this temperature range for too long, it can become a breeding ground for these dangerous microbes. Ensuring your food is held at the right temperatures is essential for keeping your meals safe and reducing the risk of illness.

Proper Temperature Guidelines (WAC 246-215-0325):

• Hot Foods: Keep hot foods at 135°F or above.
• Cold Foods: Keep cold foods at 41°F or below.

Tips for Hot Holding:

• Ensure your steam table or food warmer is hot before adding food.
• Cover your food and stir it frequently to maintain even temperatures.
• Avoid adding cold food directly to hot food; reheat separately to ensure safe temperatures.
• Always use a food thermometer to check temperatures regularly.

Tips for Cold Holding:

• Keep refrigerator doors closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Avoid overstocking the fridge and use lids and deep pans in prep coolers to trap cold air.
• If using ice to keep food cold, make sure the ice level matches the food level and surrounds the container.
• Use a food thermometer to check the temperature often.

Food Safety Focus: Calibrating Your Thermometer (WAC 246-215-04222)
A properly calibrated thermometer is your best tool for ensuring safe food temperatures. Here’s how to calibrate it:

1. Fill a container with ice and water.
2. Insert the thermometer probe and stir for about 30 seconds.
3. The thermometer should read 32°F. If not, adjust it accordingly.

By regularly calibrating your thermometer, you ensure accuracy when checking food temperatures, which is key to avoiding the danger zone.

For more detailed guidelines, check out the Washington State Retail Food Code and the Washington State Food Worker Manual to stay informed and serve food safely.

Resources:

Washington-State-Food-Worker-Manual-1.pdf (tpchd.org)

Washington State Retail Food Code

Do it Right, Serve it Safe! (wa.gov)