Which of the following temperatures is typically considered a safe holding temperature for cooked food?

The selected answer of 140°F is widely accepted as a safe holding temperature for cooked food. This temperature is critical because it helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and other pathogens that can thrive in foods. When cooked food is held at or above 140°F, it remains in the safe zone, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and food safety guidelines emphasize the importance of maintaining this temperature to ensure that food can remain safe for consumers until it is served. Other temperatures presented in the choices fall below this threshold, which may not provide sufficient protection against bacterial growth, potentially leading to food safety issues.