The minimum temperature of hot items on a buffet must be ___ degrees Fahrenheit

• A. 125
• B. 135
• C. 145
• D. 165

Answer: (B)

Keeping hot buffet items at safe temperatures prevents bacteria from multiplying. For hot-held foods, the minimum temperature you should maintain is 135 degrees Fahrenheit. At or above this level, the heat slows or stops the growth of most foodborne pathogens, helping keep servings safe over time.

125 degrees is too low for hot holding, which means bacteria can multiply quickly. 145 degrees is a common cooking temperature for several foods, but it isn’t the minimum for hot holding during service. 165 degrees is a high reheating target used to ensure all pathogens are killed when reheating leftovers, not the steady holding temperature for a buffet.