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Food temperature rules for UK kitchens

  • Last checked
  • 4 official sources
  • Hospitality
  • By PHK MEDIA LTD

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland chilled food must be kept at 8°C or below (in Scotland this is recommended rather than a legal limit); the FSA advises setting fridges at 5°C or below. Hot food on display must be at 63°C or above (above 63°C in Scotland). In England, Wales and Northern Ireland it can be kept below 63°C for one period of up to 2 hours; in Scotland keep it above 63°C (no tolerance period). Cook food so the centre reaches 70°C for 2 minutes or an equivalent, such as 75°C for 30 seconds. Freezers should be at −18°C or colder.

Food Temperature Checker (Fridge, Freezer, Hot Hold, Cooking)Free: Type in a probe or fridge reading to see whether it meets UK food safety temperatures, and what to do if it does not.

Step by step

  1. Set fridges at 5°C or belowSo food stays under the 8°C limit.
  2. Probe cooked foodIn the thickest part.
  3. Hot hold at 63°C or above (above 63°C in Scotland)In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, one period of up to 2 hours below; in Scotland no tolerance period.
  4. Record checksFor example in your Safer food, better business diary.
CheckTemperature
Chilled food (legal limit in England, Wales and NI; recommended in Scotland)8°C or below
Fridge setting5°C or below
Freezer−18°C or colder
Hot holding63°C or above (above 63°C in Scotland)
Cooking70°C for 2 min · 75°C for 30 s · 80°C for 6 s · 65°C for 10 min · 60°C for 45 min

Frequently asked questions

What temperature must chilled food be kept at?

8°C or below in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland the law requires chilled food to be kept in a fridge, chill or cool ventilated place; FSS guidance uses 8°C or below (5°C recommended).

How long can hot food be kept below 63°C?

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, one period of up to 2 hours; then cool it quickly to 8°C or below, or throw it away. In Scotland keep it above 63°C (no tolerance period).

What is a safe core cooking temperature?

70°C for 2 minutes or an equivalent such as 75°C for 30 seconds.

Sources

This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Last checked 4 November 2026. Rules change; check the sources above.