What is the minimum hot holding temperature required to safely keep mac and cheese according to food safety guidelines?

• A. 71 °C (160 °F)
• B. 63 °C (145 °F)
• C. 57 °C (135 °F)
• D. 49 °C (120 °F)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the minimum hot holding temperature is the temperature at which cooked food must be kept to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure food safety.
2. Recall that food safety guidelines, such as those from the FDA Food Code, specify a minimum hot holding temperature of 135 °F (57 °C) for most cooked foods, including mac and cheese.
3. Recognize that temperatures below this threshold allow bacteria to multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
4. Note that the other temperature options (71 °C, 63 °C, 49 °C) are either cooking temperatures or too low for safe hot holding.
5. Conclude that the minimum hot holding temperature to safely keep mac and cheese is 57 °C (135 °F), as it aligns with standard food safety regulations.