Safe Cooling


Reducing food temperature from 135°F to 70°F within two hours, and 70°F to 41°F within the next four hours; prevents bacterial growth.

Related Terms

Seafood Handling

Specific TXDSHS guidelines for storing and preparing fish and shellfish, emphasizing rapid coolin...

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TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) Foods

Items especially prone to bacterial growth (meats, dairy, cooked vegetables, etc.); TXDSHS focuse...

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Cooling Logs

Written or digital records noting the time and temperature of foods as they cool from 135°F to 70...

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Rapid Cooling Methods

Techniques like ice-water baths, ice paddles, or blast chillers to quickly reduce food temperatur...

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Ice Cream Machine Pasteurization Cycles

Some machines have built-in pasteurizing features; TXDSHS still requires periodic breakdown and c...

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Food Handler Certification

A state-approved credential ensuring individuals understand basic food safety practices. In Texas...

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ROP (Reduced Oxygen Packaging) Rules

Vacuum sealing or modified atmosphere packaging can extend shelf life but requires HACCP document...

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Bacterial Spores

Dormant forms of bacteria (e.g., Bacillus cereus) that survive cooking and grow when conditions b...

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Toxin Production

Some bacteria produce toxins that remain harmful even if the bacteria die (e.g., Staphylococcus a...

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Floor Drain Sanitation

Regular cleaning of kitchen drains to prevent bacterial buildup or pest breeding. TXDSHS inspecto...

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Cold Holding

Storing perishable foods at or below 41°F to slow bacterial growth. Food handler courses emphasiz...

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HACCP Plan

“Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point” framework used to identify potential hazards in food pro...

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Time/Temperature Control

The principle of keeping perishable foods out of the temperature danger zone (41°F–135°F) to inhi...

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FOG (Fats, Oils, Grease) Disposal

Proper collection and disposal of cooking oils to prevent drain blockages and environmental hazar...

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Temperature Danger Zone Reminder

Food handlers must keep TCS (time/temperature control for safety) foods out of 41°F–135°F to prev...

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