What is the maximum amount of time cold-held food can be served without temperature control under a written procedure?

The maximum amount of time that cold-held food can be served without temperature control is 6 hours under a written procedure. This guideline is significant because it allows for some flexibility in service without compromising food safety. When food is held at temperatures above the recommended cold storage temperature (32°F to 41°F) but below the danger zone (above 41°F where bacteria can grow rapidly), it can still be safely served for a limited duration before temperature control must be reestablished.

During this 6-hour window, it is essential that the food remains at a temperature that minimizes the risk of bacterial growth. The written procedure outlines the specific measures a food establishment must follow to ensure safety, including monitoring food temperatures and ensuring that food is discarded after the specified time if it hasn’t been consumed. This approach balances the need for effective food service with public health considerations, ultimately supporting safer food handling practices.