When thawing food with running water, what is the maximum water temperature allowed?

When thawing food with running water, the maximum water temperature allowed is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This practice is crucial for food safety, as using water that is too warm can raise the temperature of the food into the "danger zone," which is defined as between 41 degrees and 135 degrees Fahrenheit. In this temperature range, harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Using running water at a temperature higher than 70 degrees can lead to the outer layers of the food warming up too much while the inside remains frozen. This uneven thawing can create conditions for bacterial growth. Thawing food under this strict temperature guideline helps ensure that it remains safe to consume once fully thawed and ready to be cooked or prepared.

It is essential to remember that while running water effectively keeps the surface temperature of the food low, other methods such as thawing in the refrigerator or using a microwave are also safe alternatives and can be used depending on the situation.