Illinois Food Service License Practice Test 2026 - Free Food Service License Practice Questions and Study Guide

The recommended temperature for reheating leftovers is 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is crucial for ensuring that any potential pathogens present in the food are effectively destroyed, making the food safe to consume.

When reheating, it's essential to reach this specific temperature to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Food should be heated evenly, and using a food thermometer can help confirm that the entire dish has reached this safe temperature. This practice aligns with guidelines from health organizations, which emphasize the importance of thorough reheating to ensure food safety.

Other temperatures listed, such as 140, 180, and 200 degrees Fahrenheit, do not meet the specific safety requirements for effectively killing harmful bacteria that might be present in leftover food. Thus, reheating to 165 degrees is the best way to ensure safe consumption of leftovers.