What temperature must food reach when being reheated before serving on a steam table?

The correct temperature for food to reach when being reheated before serving on a steam table is 165°F. This temperature is crucial because it ensures that any harmful bacteria present in the food are effectively reduced to safe levels, making it safe for consumption.

Reheating food to this temperature also helps to maintain the safety and quality of the food being served, particularly in environments like steam tables where food can be held for extended periods. Heating food to 165°F is a key practice in food safety protocols, as it aligns with recommendations from health departments and food safety organizations. This practice minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses, which can occur if food is not heated adequately.

Other temperature options, while they may seem reasonable, do not meet the required standard for ensuring food safety. 160°F may not be sufficient for certain types of food, while temperatures lower than that can significantly increase the risk of pathogens surviving. Thus, reaching 165°F is essential for safe food handling in service environments.