What does ambient temperature refer to?

Ambient temperature refers to the temperature of the surrounding environment where food is stored or prepared. It is commonly understood as room temperature, typically around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This range is significant in the context of food safety and storage, as certain foods can be safely kept at ambient temperatures, while others require refrigeration or freezing to prevent spoilage and maintain quality.

In contrast to the other temperature classifications, such as freezing or refrigerated temperatures, which are designed to preserve food by significantly slowing microbial growth, ambient temperature is not specifically controlled. While high temperature indicates conditions that can lead to food spoilage, the designation of room temperature as ambient temperature is universally accepted in food technology, particularly regarding the proper handling and storage of perishable items.