ServSafe Manager Certification Exam Flashcards
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What is the temperature danger zone, and why does it matter?
41°F to 135°F — the range where pathogens grow most rapidly. Keeping TCS food out of this range is the core of time/temperature control.
How long can TCS food stay in the temperature danger zone before it must be discarded?
No more than four hours total; food held longer must be thrown out.
What is the two-stage cooling process for cooked TCS food?
Cool from 135°F to 70°F within 2 hours, then from 70°F to 41°F within 4 more hours — 6 hours total.
What is the minimum internal cooking temperature for poultry and stuffed items?
165°F for one second.
To what temperature must ground meat be cooked?
155°F for 17 seconds.
What are the correct hot-holding and cold-holding temperatures for TCS food?
Hot TCS food: 135°F or higher. Cold TCS food: 41°F or lower. (These are the boundaries of the danger zone, so holding food outside them keeps pathogens in check.)
What is the correct handwashing procedure?
Use a designated handwashing sink, scrub for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm running water.
When must a food handler be excluded or restricted from working with food?
When they have vomiting, diarrhea, or jaundice, or are diagnosed with Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Hepatitis A, or Norovirus.
How is cross-contamination prevented?
Separate raw and ready-to-eat foods, use separate equipment for each, and clean and sanitize surfaces.
What are the major ("Big 9") food allergens?
Milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and sesame.
What counts as acceptable ID for alcohol service?
A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.
What are common signs of intoxication a server should watch for?
Slurred speech, impaired balance, glassy or bloodshot eyes, and lowered inhibitions or aggressive behavior.
What are dram shop laws?
Laws under which an establishment can be held legally liable for injuries caused by a patron who was served while visibly intoxicated or who was a minor.
Can coffee, food, or water sober up an intoxicated guest?
No. A server can offer food and water, but only time actually reduces a person's blood alcohol concentration.
ServSafe Manager exam format: how many questions, passing score, time limit, and how long is certification valid?
90 multiple-choice questions (80 scored, 10 unscored pilot). Pass with 70%+ — at least 56 of 80 correct. You have 120 minutes. Certification is valid for 5 years.