At what temperature should solid fats like butter and shortening be stored to maintain their physical properties?

• A. Above $20°C$
• B. Below $0°C$
• C. Between $0°C$ and $4°C$
• D. Between $10°C$ and $15°C$

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the physical properties of solid fats: Solid fats like butter and shortening are composed of triglycerides, which have specific melting points. These fats are solid at room temperature but can become liquid if the temperature is too high.
2. Consider the melting point of butter and shortening: Butter typically has a melting point range of 32°C to 35°C, while shortening melts around 30°C to 40°C. Storing them at temperatures above their melting points will cause them to lose their solid structure.
3. Evaluate the storage temperature options: The goal is to maintain the fats in their solid state, which means storing them below their melting points. This eliminates the option of storing them above 20°C.
4. Analyze the effects of low temperatures: Storing fats below 0°C can cause them to become too hard, making them difficult to use. This suggests that extremely low temperatures are not ideal for maintaining usability.
5. Determine the optimal storage range: A temperature range between 0°C and 4°C is ideal for keeping fats solid while maintaining their usability. This range is above freezing but below the melting point, ensuring the fats remain solid and functional.