Bacteria need the following conditions (FAT-TOM) to survive and multiply in numbers that can make people sick.
F FOOD - (Moist, high protein)
A ACIDITY - (pH between 4.6 and 7.0)
T TEMPERATURE - (Danger Zone: 41°F - 135°F)
T TIME - (Food Danger Zone for more than 4 hours)
O OXYGEN - (Bacteria may grow with or without oxygen)
M MOISTURE - (Bacteria need water to grow)
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Food Handler's Guide for Retail Food Facilities
Housing Inspection Bureau