What is the maximum time food can be held using Time as a Public Health Control?

The maximum time food can be held using Time as a Public Health Control is four hours. This practice allows food that is not maintained at the required safe temperatures to be served safely for a limited period if certain conditions are met. The intention behind this time limit is to prevent the growth of pathogens that can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Holding food for more than four hours can significantly increase the risk of harmful bacteria growing to dangerous levels, as food can enter the temperature danger zone, where bacteria thrive. Thus, adhering to the four-hour limit ensures that food service establishments can effectively manage food safety while providing flexibility in service. This regulation also encourages establishments to monitor the time food spends outside of safe temperature control to protect public health.