Final Answer:
60°C temperature should a hot-holding unit be pre-heated before holding food.
c) 60°C
Step-by-step explanation:
Hot-holding units should be pre-heated to a temperature that ensures the safe and effective maintenance of food warmth. The correct pre-heating temperature for a hot-holding unit is 60°C (c). This temperature strikes a balance between preventing bacterial growth and maintaining the quality of the food being held.
In the foodservice industry, proper temperature control is critical to ensuring the safety of consumables. 60°C is considered the minimum safe temperature for hot-holding units as it prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, which typically thrive at temperatures between 5°C and 60°C. This temperature range is known as the "danger zone." Holding food at 60°C or higher helps to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, ensuring that the food remains safe for consumption.
It's important to note that selecting the correct pre-heating temperature is part of overall food safety practices. Inadequate pre-heating may result in insufficiently hot food, while excessive temperatures can affect food quality. Therefore, adherence to recommended temperature guidelines is crucial for maintaining both the safety and quality of the stored food in hot-holding units.