Food Temperature Control Compliance Guide

#4 Code Violation: Food Temperature Abuse

20,000+ citations β€’ $500–$5,000 fine (2025)

Shop Food Temp Kit β†’


Why Food Temp Is the #4 Code Violation

Improper hot/cold holding causes 1 in 6 foodborne illnesses. FDA issued 20,000+ citations in 2023 β€” repeat violations lead to closure.

Top Triggers:

  • Cold food >41Β°F
  • Hot food <135Β°F
  • Cooling >2 hrs to 70Β°F
  • No calibration log

2025 Fines (FDA Food Code 3-501)Β Β 

Type Fine
Priority (temp out of range) $500–$2,000
Critical (repeat) $3,000–$5,000 + closure

Source: FDA Food Code 2022

FDA Must-Haves

Required

  • Hot β‰₯135Β°F / Cold ≀41Β°F
  • Cooling: 165β†’70 in 2 hrs
  • Daily temp log

Avoid

  • Room-temp thawing
  • No thermometer calibration
  • No 6-hr final <41Β°F

βœ… Free Daily Food Temp Log Downloaded!

Print, log, post β€” avoid $5K+ closure

πŸ“„ Download Food Temp Log (PDF)

View Full Food Temp Collection β†’

By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025

FDA Food Code 2022

CGAP Industries – Interactive Safety Compliance Checklist

Safety Compliance Checkpoint

How strong is your workplace safety program? Check the boxes that apply to your business and watch your score update in real-time with smooth animations. This interactive tool is based on key OSHA recommendations.

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Your Safety Score: 0%

Free OSHA Compliance Quiz – Instant Results | CGAP Industries

How Strong Is Your Workplace Safety Program?

Answer these 14 quick questions based on OSHA's 7 core elements. Real-time score + detailed feedback when you finish.

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1. Top management provides the resources, vision, and leadership for an effective safety program

14. Contractors must comply with your safety program & their own when on site

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