A health inspector checks the lighting in your buffet area. How many foot-candles should the lighting be at least?

The recommended lighting level for buffet areas is 20 foot-candles. This level of illumination is necessary to ensure that food is presented safely and attractively while also allowing guests to see clearly when selecting items. Adequate lighting helps to prevent any accidents, such as spills or slips, and enhances the overall dining experience.

Inspections often focus on ensuring that food settings meet health and safety standards, which include proper lighting to help staff and guests identify any potential food issues, including freshness and cleanliness. The choice of 20 foot-candles strikes a balance, providing enough light without being overly harsh or unwelcoming, which could detract from the dining atmosphere.

Other choices represent lower or higher levels of illumination that may not meet the recommended standard for buffet areas, which reinforces why 20 foot-candles is the correct answer.