Final answer:
Potentially hazardous ready-to-eat food prepared on-site should be stored in a cooler at a maximum internal food temperature of c) 41 degrees F for safety. Refrigerated foods must be kept at or below 40 degrees F to inhibit bacterial growth and prevent foodborne illnesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to food safety guidelines for storing potentially hazardous ready-to-eat (TCS) food prepared on-site. According to these guidelines, such food may be stored in a cooler for up to seven days if the maximum internal food temperature does not exceed 41 degrees Fahrenheit (F). It is essential to keep refrigerated foods at or below 4 degrees Celsius (40 degrees F) to inhibit bacterial growth.
Preserving food safety is a paramount concern, and thus it's important to ensure that all steps are taken to store food properly. This includes maintaining the recommended temperature in the refrigerator, regularly checking with a thermometer, and handling foods with care to prevent contamination.