Texas Food Safety Managers Practice Test

The manager assigns a cook to monitor and record temperatures on the steam table in order to

1. Ensure food safety.

2. Keep the food from drying out.

3. Prevent cross-contamination.

4. Improve employee efficiency.

The correct answer is: Ensure food safety.

Monitoring and recording temperatures on the steam table is crucial for ensuring food safety. The primary goal of keeping food at the correct temperature is to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. The steam table is typically used to hold food items at safe temperatures, which should be at or above 135°F to prevent the multiplication of pathogens. When temperatures fall below this threshold, food can enter the "danger zone," where bacteria can rapidly grow. By assigning a cook to consistently monitor and document these temperatures, the manager is taking proactive steps to maintain food safety standards, ensuring that the food remains safe for consumption throughout the service period. Maintaining proper temperatures also aligns with food safety regulations and best practices, thus contributing to overall public health and minimizing the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks.