What is ‘time-temperature abuse’?

Time-temperature abuse refers to situations where food is held at temperatures that promote the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly when it is kept in the danger zone for extended periods. The danger zone is typically defined as the temperature range between 41°F (5°C) and 135°F (57°C), where bacteria can multiply quickly.

When food is left in this temperature range for too long, it can lead to a significant increase in the number of pathogens, which can result in foodborne illnesses when consumed. Proper temperature control is crucial in preventing this type of abuse.

The other options address different scenarios but do not capture the essence of time-temperature abuse. For instance, storing food too cold would mean it’s likely not reaching temperatures conducive to bacterial growth, and keeping food at safe temperatures should not lead to time-temperature abuse. Serving food without proper reheating doesn't necessarily relate to the concept of time-temperature abuse either, as it doesn't highlight the importance of temperature control in preventing bacterial growth.