Final answer:
The 3 steps of properly cooling foods are: cool from 135°F to 70°F within 2 hours, cool from 70°F to 41°F or below within 4 hours, and store in the refrigerator.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 3 steps of properly cooling foods are:
- Cool the food from 135°F (57°C) to 70°F (21°C) within 2 hours.
- Cool the food from 70°F (21°C) to 41°F (5°C) or below within 4 hours.
- Store the cooled food in the refrigerator at or below 41°F (5°C) until ready to serve.
It is important to cool foods properly to prevent bacterial growth and foodborne illness. Rapid cooling helps maintain food quality and safety. For example, cooling hot food in shallow containers or using an ice bath can speed up the cooling process.