Time & Temperature (NYC)Question 73 of 240
A large pan of lasagna is left to cool covered on a prep table for 3 hours before refrigerating. What is the NYC time-temperature problem?
a.It likely stayed in the danger zone too long — it must reach 70°F within 2 hours, and covering plus counter cooling slows heat loss
b.There is no problem with this method
c.Cooling should always take place at room temperature for 6 hours
d.Lasagna is not a TCS food
Explanation
Leaving lasagna covered on the counter for 3 hours very likely violates the first cooling stage (140°F to 70°F within 2 hours), because a covered, dense pan on a warm table loses heat slowly and lingers in the danger zone. It should be portioned into shallow pans and cooled with an ice bath or in the cooler, loosely covered. Lasagna's meat, cheese, and sauce make it a TCS food.
Law Reference: NYC Health Code Article 81Practice all 240 questions free — no signup required.
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