State Food Safety Practice Exam

What is the minimum temperature requirement for hot holding tomato basil soup at a salad bar?

1. 135°F (57°C)

2. 145°F (63°C)

3. 155°F (68°C)

4. 165°F (74°C)

The correct answer is: 135°F (57°C)

The minimum temperature requirement for hot holding tomato basil soup at a salad bar is 135°F (57°C). This temperature is considered safe for maintaining hot foods to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. The 135°F minimum helps ensure that the food remains at a temperature that is above the danger zone, which is typically defined as between 41°F and 135°F. Hot holding foods at or above this minimum temperature helps to preserve the quality of the soup while also ensuring food safety for consumers. If the soup were held below this temperature, it would be more susceptible to bacterial growth, possibly leading to foodborne illness. The other temperatures listed are higher than necessary for hot holding soup. While cooking meats and certain other foods may require higher temperatures for safety and to achieve desired doneness, 135°F is sufficient for soup, as it is generally a liquid with a relatively low risk of harboring pathogens when held at the proper temperature.