how hot must food be kept on a steam table

Food must be kept on a steam table at a temperature above 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C) to ensure it stays safe from bacterial growth. The key is maintaining the internal temperature of the food, not just the steam table's heat setting, so frequent temperature checks with a food thermometer are essential. Using lids and stirring food regularly helps keep the heat distributed evenly. Additionally, steam tables are designed to hold hot food, not to reheat or cook it from cold. Different foods may require slightly adjusted temperatures to maintain quality while staying safe.