What does a food temperature log track?

A food temperature log is an essential tool in culinary safety that specifically tracks the temperatures of food items during critical processes such as cooking, cooling, and holding. Monitoring temperatures is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses, as different types of food require specific temperature ranges to ensure safety and quality.

For example, cooking food to the appropriate internal temperature can kill harmful bacteria, while proper cooling techniques can inhibit the growth of pathogens that thrive at unsafe temperatures. The log helps staff ensure that these temperatures are consistently met and maintained, providing a record that can be referenced for safety compliance and quality control. This practice is a key part of maintaining food safety standards in any kitchen or food service setting, ensuring that food is not only delicious but also safe for consumption.