Food Temperature Control Compliance Guide

#4 Code Violation: Food Temperature Abuse

20,000+ citations • $500–$5,000 fine (2025)

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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 — repeat violations lead to closure.

Top Triggers:

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

2025 Fines (FDA Food Code 3-501)  

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 ≥135°F / Cold ≤41°F
  • Cooling: 165→70 in 2 hrs
  • Daily temp log

Avoid

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

✅ Free Daily Food Temp Log Downloaded!

Print, log, post — avoid $5K+ closure

📄 Download Food Temp Log (PDF)

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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025

FDA Food Code 2022

Why Safety Signs Matter More Than You Think: Simple Fixes That Prevent Big Problems

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Ladder Safety Starts on the Wall – Not Just on the Rungs

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    Falls from ladders are one of those “we know better” hazards that still send workers to the hospital every year. Most crews understand the basics—don’t stand on the top step,...

    Ladder Safety Starts on the Wall: Posting What ...

    Joseph Pannell

    Falls from ladders are one of those “we know better” hazards that still send workers to the hospital every year. Most crews understand the basics—don’t stand on the top step,...

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