Bacteria grow very fast at:

Bacteria grow very fast at:

• A. 32-40 F
• B. 0-32 F
• C. 70-125 F
• D. 140-160 F

Answer: (C)

Bacteria multiply fastest in moderate warmth, where conditions are warm enough to fuel cell division but not so hot they’re killed. That makes the 70–125°F range the time when growth is most rapid, so foods left in this zone can quickly become unsafe. At fridge temperatures (32–40°F) or below freezing (0–32°F), growth slows or stops, which is why refrigeration and freezing help preserve food. At high heat (140–160°F), most bacteria are killed or cannot multiply, which is why cooking and hot-holding temperatures are used for safety. So, the best answer is the warm, moderate range because it represents where bacteria grow most quickly.

Bacteria multiply fastest in moderate warmth, where conditions are warm enough to fuel cell division but not so hot they’re killed. That makes the 70–125°F range the time when growth is most rapid, so foods left in this zone can quickly become unsafe. At fridge temperatures (32–40°F) or below freezing (0–32°F), growth slows or stops, which is why refrigeration and freezing help preserve food. At high heat (140–160°F), most bacteria are killed or cannot multiply, which is why cooking and hot-holding temperatures are used for safety. So, the best answer is the warm, moderate range because it represents where bacteria grow most quickly.