How long can cooked food be safely held at temperatures above 135° F?

Cooked food can be safely held at temperatures above 135°F for a maximum of 4 hours. Maintaining food at this temperature is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. When food is held at temperatures within the danger zone (between 41°F and 135°F), bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Holding food at a temperature above 135°F for more than 4 hours exceeds the recommended safety guidelines. It is crucial to monitor food temperatures and ensure that any cooked food served or held for an extended period is either consumed, properly stored, or discarded to maintain safety and quality standards.