What is the safe temperature for reheating leftover food?

The safe temperature for reheating leftover food is 165°F (74°C). This temperature is critical because it ensures that any harmful bacteria that may have developed during storage are killed. When food is reheated to this temperature, it reaches a point that is safe for consumption, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

While the other temperatures listed may be safe for cooking certain foods or holding food, they do not adequately address the need for thorough reheating of leftovers. For example, while 145°F (63°C) and 140°F (60°C) can be safe temperatures for keeping food hot, they are not sufficient for killing bacteria in leftovers. 180°F (82°C) exceeds the necessary temperature, which, while safe, is unnecessarily high for reheating and can lead to overcooking or drying out the food. Reheating to 165°F guarantees food safety while maintaining quality.