What is the Temperature Danger Zone where bacteria can thrive?

The Temperature Danger Zone is defined as the range where bacteria can grow rapidly and pose a risk for food safety. This zone is specifically between 41°F and 135°F. Within this range, food can become unsafe to consume because most harmful bacteria thrive and multiply at these temperatures.

Keeping food out of this danger zone is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. For instance, when food is held above 135°F, it is considered hot enough to inhibit bacterial growth, while food refrigerated below 41°F is cold enough to slow down or stop bacterial proliferation.

The other temperature ranges provided do not represent the critical span that supports rapid bacterial growth. Therefore, understanding and maintaining proper temperature controls in food storage and preparation is vital in ensuring food safety.