Which food is at a temperature that allows bacteria to grow well?
A roast at 125°F(52°C)
Hamburgers at 165°F(74°C)
Pork chops at 170°F(77°C)
A steak at 180°F(82°C)
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: A roast at 125°F (52°C)
Explanation:
Bacterial growth in food is a major concern in food safety. Most bacteria that cause foodborne illness thrive in a temperature range known as the “danger zone.” According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the danger zone is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Within this range, bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes can multiply rapidly, potentially doubling in number every 20 minutes.
Let’s analyze each option:
Summary:
Only the roast at 125°F (52°C) is in a temperature range that supports rapid bacterial growth. To prevent foodborne illness, it’s essential to keep hot foods above 140°F (60°C) and cold foods below 40°F (4°C).