Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

What is the holding time for poultry to reach the safe cooking temperature of 165 Degrees?

1. 30 seconds

2. 15 seconds

3. 2 minutes

4. No holding time

The correct answer is: 2 minutes

The correct answer highlights that the holding time for poultry to reach a safe cooking temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit is indeed 2 minutes. This standard is established by food safety regulations to ensure that the internal temperature is maintained long enough to effectively kill harmful bacteria that can be present in raw poultry, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. Reaching 165 degrees is crucial because it is the temperature at which these pathogens are significantly reduced, making the food safe for consumption. The additional holding time allows for any potential heat loss during the cooking process and ensures that the entire portion of the poultry has enough time at the target temperature to achieve food safety. Holding time is an important aspect of food safety because it affects the overall reduction of pathogens. While cooking may bring the internal temperature up quickly, maintaining that temperature ensures that any parts of the poultry that may have been cooler get properly cooked through.