Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What internal cooking temperature must rare roast beef reach?

1. 120F

2. 130F

3. 140F

4. 145F

The correct answer is: 130F

Rare roast beef is typically served at an internal cooking temperature of around 130°F. This temperature allows the meat to retain a red center while still being safe to consume for certain cuts, following industry guidelines and standards. Cooking beef to this temperature ensures that it is adequately seared on the outside while maintaining a rare doneness inside. While other temperatures may relate to different levels of doneness or safety for various types of meat, 130°F is specifically recognized for rare roast beef, striking a balance between flavor, texture, and safety. For example, cooking beef to a higher temperature, such as 145°F, would classify it as medium rare while also ensuring safety for consumption, but it would not fit the definition of rare. Thus, 130°F is the ideal point for rare roast beef.