A large container of potato salad has been removed from cold holding at the correct temperature. How long can it be held without temperature control, as long as it does not exceed 70°F?

• A. Two hours
• B. Eight hours
• C. Six hours
• D. Four hours

Answer: (C)

When potentially hazardous foods like potato salad are left without temperature control, the amount of time they can be held is determined by the ambient temperature. If the temperature stays at or below 70°F, you may hold the item for up to six hours. After six hours, discard or recondition the food. If the temperature rises above 70°F, the safe window shortens (typically to two hours).

This is because warmth accelerates bacterial growth, so keeping a mayo-based salad out at 70°F or cooler extends the safe holding period more than if it gets warmer. The six-hour limit is the approved time frame for safe hold without temperature control under those conditions.