Question

To reheat a soup for the buffet line, a food handler should:

a. Use a microwave oven
b. Heat it rapidly to 160°F (71°C)
c. Let it sit at room temperature
d. Skip reheating for efficiency

Answer 1

To safely reheat soup for a buffet, a food handler should heat it rapidly to 160°F (71°C) to reach a safe consumption temperature, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

To reheat a soup for the buffet line, a food handler should heat it rapidly to 160°F (71°C) to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature for consumption. Using methods such as a microwave could be a part of the reheating process, but the key is to ensure the soup reaches the safe temperature quickly. This also helps minimize the time the food spends in the 'danger zone' between 40° and 140° F (4° and 60° C), where bacteria can multiply rapidly. Leaving it to sit at room temperature or skipping reheating could be hazardous as they increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. Ensuring proper food safety practices, such as using a thermometer to check the temperature as indicated in Figure 24.16 for safe internal temperatures, is paramount when handling and serving food.