What is the warmest temperature that cold food must be kept at on the salad bar to be safe?

To ensure food safety on a salad bar, it is crucial to maintain cold foods at a temperature that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. The FDA Food Code specifies that cold foods should be kept at a maximum temperature of 41°F. This temperature slows down the proliferation of bacteria, helping to prevent foodborne illnesses.

While lower temperatures are beneficial for food preservation, the threshold for keeping cold foods safe has been established at 41°F. Serving food warmer than this increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to contamination and health risks. Therefore, when managing a salad bar, it is essential to keep all cold dishes at or below this specified temperature to ensure the safety and quality of the food being served.