ServSafe Manager Practice Exam

To what temperature must TCS food be reheated for immediate service?

1. 145°F (63°C)

2. 150°F (65°C)

3. Any temperature

4. 165°F (74°C)

The correct answer is: Any temperature

TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) food must be reheated to a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) if it is to be served immediately. This is an essential practice to ensure that harmful pathogens, which may have developed during storage, are eliminated. Reheating food to this temperature is critical as it guarantees that it is safe for consumption, particularly when serving vulnerable populations. While "any temperature" might initially seem like a plausible answer, it overlooks the safety measures established to prevent foodborne illness. Serving TCS food at any temperature fails to ensure that it reaches a safe level to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, or parasites that could cause illness, which is why the option is not appropriate in this context. Understanding the importance of reheating TCS food to the correct temperature reinforces safe food handling practices and enhances your ability to maintain food safety standards in any food service environment.