Temperatures that encourage bacterial growth fall within which range?

Temperatures that encourage bacterial growth fall within which range?

• A. 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit
• B. 40-140 degrees Fahrenheit
• C. 140-212 degrees Fahrenheit
• D. 0-40 degrees Fahrenheit

Answer: (B)

Bacteria grow best when warmth is present but not extreme, so temperatures in the 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit range fast-track their growth. This is why it’s called the danger zone: in this window, many pathogens can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Keep foods cold (40 F or below) to slow growth and cook or hold hot foods above 140 F to reduce bacterial numbers.

Bacteria grow best when warmth is present but not extreme, so temperatures in the 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit range fast-track their growth. This is why it’s called the danger zone: in this window, many pathogens can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Keep foods cold (40 F or below) to slow growth and cook or hold hot foods above 140 F to reduce bacterial numbers.