Final answer:
The minimum internal cooking temperature for raw shell eggs to be held at a breakfast buffet is 145°F. This ensures safety by killing potential bacteria and preventing foodborne illness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The minimum internal cooking temperature for raw shell eggs that will be held at a breakfast buffet is 145°F. This temperature is sufficient to reduce the risk of foodborne illness by killing bacteria and other pathogens that may be present in the eggs. Perishable foods, such as eggs, that are maintained at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours can become unsafe to eat due to rapid bacterial growth. Therefore, ensuring that eggs reach 145°F is crucial to prevent the rapid multiplication of microorganisms. A meat thermometer should be used to verify that the eggs have reached this safe internal cooking temperature.