What is the total shelf life for products held on a steam table?

The total shelf life for products held on a steam table is typically 4 hours. This timeframe is crucial for food safety, as it ensures that food remains at safe temperatures and reduces the risk of bacterial growth. Steam tables are designed to keep cooked food at temperatures that can inhibit the growth of pathogens; however, once food is placed in the steam table, it should not be held for longer than 4 hours. After this period, the quality and safety of the food can decline, making it potentially hazardous for consumption. This guideline is generally consistent with food safety standards which prioritize minimizing the time that food spends in the temperature danger zone.