To determine the minimum hot-holding temperature requirement for baked potatoes, we need to know the food safety guidelines for hot-holding temperatures. Hot-holding temperatures are necessary to ensure that food remains safe to consume and does not promote bacterial growth.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other food safety organizations typically provide these guidelines, indicating the safe minimum temperatures at which food should be held. These temperatures help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure that the food remains safe to eat.
Let's consider the given options:
a. [tex]$135^{\circ} F \left(57^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]
b. [tex]$145^{\circ} F \left(63^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]
c. [tex]$155^{\circ} F \left(68^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]
d. [tex]$165^{\circ} F \left(74^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]
Based on the food safety guidelines:
- The minimum required hot-holding temperature for baked potatoes (and most hot-held foods) is [tex]$135^{\circ} F \left(57^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]. This temperature ensures that the food remains out of the "danger zone," which is between [tex]$41^{\circ} F (5^{\circ} C)$[/tex] and [tex]$135^{\circ} F (57^{\circ} C)$[/tex], where bacteria can multiply rapidly.
Thus, the correct answer to ensure safe hot-holding of baked potatoes is:
a. [tex]$135^{\circ} F \left(57^{\circ} C \right)$[/tex]
