What is the temperature range for safe reheating of leftovers?

The safe reheating temperature for leftovers is at least 165°F (73.9°C) because this temperature effectively destroys harmful bacteria that may have developed while the food was stored. When food is reheated to this temperature, it ensures that any potential pathogens, such as Salmonella or E. coli, are eliminated, making the food safe to consume.

Reheating foods to this temperature is particularly important for items that may have been left out at room temperature for an extended period. When leftovers cool, bacteria can multiply if they are not refrigerated promptly. Therefore, reaching at least 165°F is a key practice in food safety to prevent foodborne illness.

While the other temperature options are lower than 165°F, they do not provide the same level of assurance that harmful bacteria have been effectively eradicated. For instance, temperatures like 150°F or 140°F may not adequately kill these pathogens, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Thus, aiming for at least 165°F is essential in culinary safety practices.