Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What is the maximum temperature at which potentially hazardous foods must be kept?

1. 45°F or below

2. 60°F or below

3. 140°F or above

4. 165°F or above

The correct answer is: 45°F or below

The correct answer is based on guidelines related to food safety and the prevention of foodborne illnesses. Potentially hazardous foods, which include items that support the rapid growth of microorganisms, must be maintained at a safe temperature to prevent bacteria from multiplying. Food must be kept at a temperature of 45°F or below to ensure that it remains safe for consumption. This temperature threshold helps to inhibit the growth of pathogens that can thrive within the 45°F to 140°F range, which is often referred to as the "danger zone" for food safety. Keeping potentially hazardous foods at or below this specified temperature is a critical control point in food safety management. The other options suggest temperatures that either do not adequately prevent the growth of harmful bacteria or are related to cooking or heating processes rather than storage. The focus on a maximum storage temperature of 45°F is essential for maintaining food safety in environments such as nursing homes, where vulnerable populations are served.