At what temperature must meat and dairy boxes be kept?

The correct choice for the temperature at which meat and dairy must be kept is 35°F. Keeping meat and dairy products at this temperature is essential for food safety as it helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. In a refrigeration context, the ideal range for storing perishable items is generally at or just above freezing (32°F) but below 40°F.

At 35°F, food products are kept in a safe temperature zone, which retains freshness and minimizes spoilage while ensuring that bacteria cannot grow effectively. It is important to monitor these temperatures closely in a nursing home or other healthcare settings, as proper food storage is critical to the health and safety of residents.

The other options would not provide the same optimal balance for safety and storage. For instance, a temperature of 40°F is at the edge of the danger zone, where bacteria can begin to multiply, while temperatures around or below 32°F might freeze certain dairy products, affecting their texture and quality.