360 Training Food Handlers Practice Exam

What is the required time and temperature for hot water manual sanitization?

1. 10 seconds at 140 F

2. 15 seconds at 150 F

3. 20 seconds at 160 F

4. 30 seconds at 170 F

The correct answer is: 15 seconds at 150 F

The correct option indicates that hot water manual sanitization requires exposure to water at a temperature of 150°F for a duration of 15 seconds. This standard is based on guidelines established to ensure effective sanitization, effectively killing harmful microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. At this specific temperature and time combination, the heat effectively penetrates the surfaces of the items being sanitized, allowing for the thermal destruction of pathogens without causing damage to the equipment or utensils. The 15-second duration is critical to ensure all surfaces are adequately exposed to the high temperature, providing a balance between safety and efficiency in sanitizing methods. Other temperature and time combinations, such as higher or lower temperatures or extended times, may not conform to the optimal standards set forth by food safety authorities, thereby not guaranteeing the same level of effectiveness in sanitization.