Question

hot foods cool quickly when:
a) left to stabilize at room temperature for 3 hours
b) divided into small portions, placed into shallow pans and refrigerated right away
c) its container is surrounded by ice water and stirred frequently
d) both b) and c)

Explanation:

• Option a) is incorrect because leaving hot foods to stabilize at room temperature for 3 hours is not a proper way to cool them quickly. This can allow bacteria to grow as the food is in the temperature - danger zone (40°F - 140°F or 4.4°C - 60°C) for an extended period.
• Option b) is correct. Dividing hot foods into small portions and placing them in shallow pans increases the surface area. A larger surface area allows for more heat transfer to the surrounding environment (either air in the refrigerator or ice - water bath), which helps in cooling the food more quickly.
• Option c) is correct. When a container of hot food is surrounded by ice water and stirred frequently, the ice water acts as a heat sink. Stirring ensures that the heat is evenly distributed and removed from the food, facilitating faster cooling.

Answer:

d) both b) and c)