What is the required internal temperature for reheating commercially processed food?

The required internal temperature for reheating commercially processed food is 135°F. This temperature ensures that food is reheated adequately to be safe for consumption. Reheating food to this temperature helps to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses by effectively killing harmful bacteria that may have developed during storage.

Commercially processed foods are typically pre-cooked and need to reach at least 135°F to ensure they are safe and palatable, adhering to food safety guidelines. This temperature threshold is specifically designed to balance safety and maintaining quality in commercially prepared items that will be served hot.

Choosing a temperature lower than 135°F does not provide sufficient safety against pathogens, while opting for a much higher temperature may lead to undesirable changes in flavor or texture, causing a decline in the quality of the food.