Final answer:
Bagged, chopped lettuce is safe to accept when its temperature is below 40°F, as higher temperatures within the danger zone can lead to bacterial growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bagged, chopped lettuce may be accepted when its temperature is below 40°F (4°C). According to food safety guidelines, perishable foods like lettuce should be kept out of the temperature danger zone, which ranges between 40°F and 140°F.
This is the range where bacteria can multiply rapidly. Therefore, to ensure food safety and prevent the growth of bacteria, bagged lettuce must be stored at cold temperatures below 40°F prior to acceptance.