What is the recommended temperature for reheating leftover food?

The recommended temperature for reheating leftover food is 165°F (74°C) because this temperature is sufficient to kill harmful bacteria that may have grown while the food was stored. When reheating, it is critical to reach this temperature throughout the entire dish to ensure that any pathogens are effectively eliminated, making the food safe to consume. This guideline helps to prevent foodborne illnesses, which can occur when food is not reheated to a high enough temperature.

Other temperatures mentioned in the choices do not provide adequate safety against bacteria. For instance, 140°F (60°C) is below the safe threshold, and while it may keep food warm, it does not sufficiently eliminate potentially dangerous microorganisms. Similarly, 180°F (82°C) is higher than necessary for reheating, which may lead to overcooked or dried-out food. Lastly, 120°F (49°C) is far too low to ensure safety in reheated leftovers, as it puts the food right in the danger zone where bacteria can easily thrive.