California eFoodHandlers Practice Exam

Potentially hazardous foods are foods that must be kept hot or cold for safety. Which of the following are potentially hazardous foods?

1. Bread, dried beans, whole melons

2. Hamburger, cooked beans, cut melons

3. Cereal, chocolate, coffee beans

4. Salt, sugar, honey

The correct answer is: Hamburger, cooked beans, cut melons

Breads, dried beans, whole melons, cereal, chocolate, coffee beans, salt, sugar and honey are not considered potentially hazardous foods as they do not require specific temperatures for safe storage. Potentially hazardous foods are defined as foods that support the growth of harmful bacteria when stored at room temperature. The safest way to store these foods is to keep them at the appropriate temperature below 41°F or above 135°F to prevent bacterial growth. In contrast, hamburger, cooked beans and cut melons are considered potentially hazardous as they require specific temperatures for safe storage. Hamburger should be stored at an internal temperature of at least 155°F, cooked beans should be stored above 135°F, and cut melons should be kept below 41°F to prevent bacterial growth.