Food Safety Certification Practice Test

What is the cooking time and temperature for TCS foods such as rare roast?

1. 145°F for 15 minutes

2. 130°F for 112 minutes

3. 160°F for 10 minutes

4. 140°F for 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 130°F for 112 minutes

The correct temperature and cooking time for TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods, such as rare roast, is 130°F for 112 minutes. This option acknowledges the requirement for cooking certain cuts of meat to a lower temperature for an extended period to effectively reduce pathogenic bacteria to safe levels. Cooking at this specific temperature and duration ensures that the meat reaches a safe level of pasteurization. This method is often associated with sous vide cooking techniques, where food is vacuum-sealed and cooked at precisely controlled temperatures for longer times to achieve tenderness and flavor while still ensuring safety. It contrasts with higher temperature options that would cook food faster but may not yield the same quality or intended results for rare roast. The specificity of both the temperature and duration is critical, as it allows for the growth of longer-term safety measures without losing the desirable qualities of the meat.