Starbucks Food Safety Practice Exam

What is the correct temperature for hot water sanitizing?

1. 150°F

2. 170°F

3. 200°F

4. 180°F

The correct answer is: 170°F

The correct temperature for hot water sanitizing is 170°F. This temperature is essential because it effectively kills a wide range of pathogens that can be present on food contact surfaces, utensils, and equipment. Hot water sanitizing is a method used to ensure hygiene and reduce the risk of foodborne illness by using high temperatures to eliminate harmful microorganisms. At 170°F, the water is hot enough to achieve the necessary sanitizing effect while still being manageable for proper cleaning procedures. It allows for a brief contact time, which is critical because hotter temperatures can degrade some materials or become unsafe for employees to handle. While other temperatures, like 150°F or 200°F, might influence sanitizing outcomes, they do not provide the optimal balance of efficiency and safety required in food service operations. Using temperatures above or below the recommended level can compromise the effectiveness of sanitization or pose safety risks to staff.