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To prevent time-temperature abuse when transporting food, which practice should be followed? A. Stack all hot potentially hazardous (TCS) food items together in a sturdy cardboard box. B. Load the delivery truck with potentially hazardous (TCS) cold items first and hot items last. C. Transport cold potentially hazardous (TCS) food in an ice chest that maintains a temperature of 45°F. D. Transport potentially hazardous (TCS) hot food in an insulated food container at 135°F or higher.
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Answer

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Step 1:
: Understand the problem and identify the key requirement.

The main objective here is to prevent time-temperature abuse when transporting food. Time-temperature abuse occurs when food is not kept at safe temperatures, promoting bacterial growth and potentially causing foodborne illnesses.

Step 2:
: Analyze the given options and identify the proper handling of hot and cold temperature-controlled for safety (TCS) food items.

TCS food items are particularly susceptible to bacterial growth when exposed to temperatures between 41°F and 135°F (5°C and 57°C), known as the temperature danger zone. To prevent time-temperature abuse, it's crucial to maintain proper temperatures during transportation.

Step 3:
: Evaluate the options.

A. Stack all hot potentially hazardous (TCS) food items together in a sturdy cardboard box. - This option does not address the temperature control of hot food items and may lead to time-temperature abuse. B. Load the delivery truck with potentially hazardous (TCS) cold items first and hot items last. - This option does not ensure proper temperature control for both hot and cold food items during transportation. C. Transport cold potentially hazardous (TCS) food in an ice chest that maintains a temperature of 45°F. - This option addresses the temperature control for cold food items, keeping them below the temperature danger zone. D. Transport potentially hazardous (TCS) hot food in an insulated food container at 135°F or higher. - This option ensures that hot food items are maintained above the temperature danger zone, preventing time-temperature abuse.

Step 4:
: Select the best option.

Between options C and D, both ensure proper temperature control for their respective food items. However, option D is the best choice as it addresses the temperature control for hot TCS food items, which are more prone to time-temperature abuse due to their higher initial temperature.

Final Answer

Transport potentially hazardous (TCS) hot food in an insulated food container at 135°F or higher.