Cold holding — Food Safety Glossary

Keeping cold food at or below 5 degrees C during storage or display so bacteria cannot grow.

Frequently asked questions

What temperature is required for cold holding?

Cold potentially hazardous food that is stored or displayed should be kept at or below 5 degrees C.

Is the fridge dial reading good enough?

Not on its own. Check the temperature of the food itself with a probe thermometer, since the food can be warmer than the air, especially near doors or above the load line.

Why should I not overfill a cold display?

Overfilling above the load line blocks airflow and lets food, especially near the top or front, warm into the danger zone.

What if cold food is found above 5 degrees C?

Take corrective action. If it only just rose, return it to proper refrigeration. If ready-to-eat food has been warm longer, apply the 2-hour / 4-hour rule.

Does cold holding apply to frozen food?

Frozen food should be kept frozen hard. Cold holding at or below 5 degrees C applies to chilled, not frozen, potentially hazardous food.

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