Temperature Ranges in Food Safety

Temperature Ranges in Food Safety: What You Need to Know

Food safety is a critical aspect of maintaining good health. One of the most important factors in ensuring food safety is temperature control. The temperature at which food is stored, cooked, and reheated can have a significant impact on its safety for consumption.

According to the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, the ideal temperature range for storing dry foods is between 10°C and 15°C (50°F and 59°F) ¹. This temperature range helps prevent spoilage and the swelling of canned goods. The storeroom should be easy to keep clean and free from rodents and vermin. All wall, ceiling, and floor openings should be sealed and protected to prevent access. The area should be designed so it is easy to arrange and rearrange supplies to facilitate stock rotation ¹.

The HealthLink BC advises consumers to set their refrigerator at or below 4°C (40°F) and their freezer at or below -18°C (0°F) ². Meat, poultry, eggs, fish, shellfish, ready-to-eat foods, and leftovers should be refrigerated or frozen within 2 hours or sooner. If the temperature outdoors is above 32°C (90°F), refrigerate within 1 hour ².

When cooking raw meat and poultry, it is important to use a food thermometer to assure that meat and poultry have reached a safe minimum internal temperature. For example, all raw beef, pork, lamb, and veal steaks, chops, and roasts should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F as measured with a food thermometer before removing meat from the heat source. For safety and quality, allow meat to rest for at least three minutes before carving or consuming. For reasons of personal preference, consumers may choose to cook meat to higher temperatures ³.

In summary, keeping food at the right temperature and cooking raw meat and poultry to a safe minimum internal temperature are essential steps in ensuring food safety. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent foodborne illness and keep yourself and your loved ones healthy.