Certified Professional Food Safety (CP-FS) Practice Exam

What is the minimum lighting requirement in a food preparation area?

1. 10 foot candles (110 lux)

2. 30 foot-candles (320 lux)

3. 50 foot-candles (540 lux)

4. 100 foot-candles (1076 lux)

The correct answer is: 50 foot-candles (540 lux)

The minimum lighting requirement in a food preparation area is set to ensure that food handlers can effectively see and evaluate the condition of food, utensils, surfaces, and equipment, which is critical for maintaining food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses. The correct choice reflects the standard of 50 foot-candles (540 lux), which is deemed appropriate for food preparation activities. This level of illumination aids in detecting potential contaminants, proper cleaning, and ensuring that food is handled safely. Adequate lighting, as specified in food safety guidelines, allows for clear visibility when performing tasks such as chopping, cooking, and inspecting food items. Stronger lighting levels could potentially hinder visibility if there is glare or shadows, making 50 foot-candles a balanced standard for practical work environments. Standards lower than this might not provide sufficient light for safe food handling and cleaning procedures, while excessively high levels could lead to discomfort without significant benefits for the tasks performed in the kitchen. Thus, 50 foot-candles serves as the optimal minimum requirement for maintaining both safety and comfort in food preparation areas.