Time & Temperature (NYC)Question 52 of 240
Why is the danger zone so hazardous? Within it, a single bacterium can double approximately every:
a.24 hours
b.6 hours
c.3 hours
d.20 minutes
Explanation
In the danger zone (41°F to 140°F in NYC), bacteria can double roughly every 20 minutes under ideal conditions, so a few cells can become millions in just a few hours. This is why minimizing time in the zone during cooling, holding, and prep is critical. Slower doubling times do not reflect the real risk.
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