To determine the correct answer for the highest temperature allowed for cold-holding tuna salad, we need to review recommended cold-holding temperatures for refrigerated perishable foods.
Cold-holding is crucial to ensure the safety and quality of perishable foods by slowing down the growth of harmful bacteria. According to food safety guidelines provided by health authorities such as the FDA and the USDA, the safe maximum temperature for cold-holding food items is typically around [tex]\(40^{\circ} F (4^{\circ} C)\)[/tex].
However, reviewing the provided options:
a. [tex]\(41^{\circ} F \left(5^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
b. [tex]\(50^{\circ} F \left(10^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
c. [tex]\(59^{\circ} F \left(15^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
d. [tex]\(68^{\circ} F \left(20^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
Option a: [tex]\(41^{\circ} F \left(5^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex] is just slightly above the more conservative guideline of [tex]\(40^{\circ} F\)[/tex], but it is often accepted as a safe temperature limit in some regulations for cold-holding.
Option b: [tex]\(50^{\circ} F \left(10^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex] exceeds the safe limit for cold-holding temperatures and could encourage bacterial growth.
Option c: [tex]\(59^{\circ} F \left(15^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex] is far above the recommended safe temperature and could be unsafe.
Option d: [tex]\(68^{\circ} F \left(20^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex] is significantly higher and would not be safe for cold-holding purposes.
Thus, the correct highest temperature allowed for cold-holding tuna salad is:
a. [tex]\(41^{\circ} F \left(5^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
Therefore, the final answer is:
[tex]\(41^{\circ} F \left(5^{\circ} C \right)\)[/tex]
