CFPM Food Receiving & Storage Flashcards

What is the required holding temperature for a standard commercial refrigerator storing TCS foods?

Answer: At or below 41°F (5°C)

Commercial refrigerators must maintain a temperature of 41°F (5°C) or below to keep TCS foods safe and inhibit bacterial growth.

How long can raw poultry safely be stored in a refrigerator at 41°F or below?

Answer: 1–2 days

Raw poultry should be used within 1–2 days of refrigerated storage to minimize the risk of pathogen growth, particularly Salmonella and Campylobacter.

What is the FDA Food Code temperature danger zone for TCS foods?

Answer: 41°F to 135°F (5°C to 57°C)

The FDA Food Code defines the temperature danger zone as 41°F to 135°F (5°C to 57°C), the range where most pathogens grow rapidly.

How must raw meat be stored relative to ready-to-eat foods in a shared refrigerator?

Answer: On shelves below ready-to-eat foods

Raw meat must always be stored below ready-to-eat foods to prevent drip contamination from raw juices onto foods that will not be cooked.

What is date marking used for in food storage?

Answer: To identify when prepared or opened TCS foods must be consumed or discarded

Date marking identifies the date TCS food was prepared or opened so staff know when it must be used or discarded, typically within 7 days including the prep date.

What is the maximum number of days that commercially processed, opened ready-to-eat TCS food can be held in a refrigerator at 41°F?

Answer: 7 days

Opened commercially processed ready-to-eat TCS foods may be held for a maximum of 7 days (including the day opened) when stored at 41°F or below.