For reheating and hot holding food, it should be heated to 165°F and then held at ____________ temperature.

When reheating and hot holding food, it's important to heat it to a safe temperature to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. The correct answer is that food should be heated to 165°F and then held at 135°F. This temperature ensures that the food remains in a safe zone for hot holding, which is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.

Holding food at temperatures between 135°F and above safeguards against bacterial growth because most pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses cannot thrive in this range. Maintaining food at this temperature allows for safe service and consumption.

Options indicated do not adequately reflect the safe hot holding temperature according to food safety standards. While 165°F is essential for reheating, holding at that temperature continuously may not be practical or necessary, as it can cause food to dry out or overcook. The correct hot holding temperature of 135°F strikes a balance between safety and the quality of the food being served.