What is the correct procedure for heating food before placing it on the steam table?

The correct procedure for heating food before placing it on the steam table is to reheat food to 165 degrees and hold for 15 seconds. This temperature and time combination is essential to ensure that harmful bacteria and pathogens that may have developed during storage are effectively killed, thereby making the food safe for consumption.

The standard of 165 degrees is widely recognized as the safe temperature for reheating various types of food, particularly meats and poultry, to ensure food safety. Holding the food at this temperature for at least 15 seconds provides sufficient time for the heat to penetrate the food uniformly, further ensuring that any potentially hazardous organisms are destroyed.

This procedure helps maintain food safety standards and is particularly critical in food service settings where food is prepared in advance and served later. It also aligns with guidelines from health departments and food safety organizations, reinforcing the importance of following proper reheating protocols to prevent foodborne illnesses.