Hot foods shall leave the kitchen above ______ degrees F. according to industry standards.

The correct temperature for hot foods leaving the kitchen, as stated in industry standards, is 135 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is established to ensure food safety and minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Keeping hot foods above this temperature helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can proliferate in the temperature "danger zone," which is typically defined as between 41 degrees and 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining foods at or above 135 degrees during storage and serving helps to protect the health of individuals consuming the food, making this standard crucial in food service management.

Choosing 135 degrees reflects guidelines recommended by food safety organizations, which focus on safe food handling practices to guard against contamination and outbreaks. The other options, while representing safe temperatures, do not align with the specific regulations for hot food retention.