What is the immediate action to take if a thermometer reads above 135 degrees F for food?

When a thermometer reads above 135 degrees Fahrenheit for food, the correct immediate action is to cook the food further if necessary. This temperature is significant because foods should be maintained at safe temperatures to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. When food is measured at this temperature, it indicates that the food may not have been fully cooked or held at safe temperatures previously.

Cooking the food further ensures that it reaches the appropriate internal temperature to eliminate any potential pathogens, guaranteeing that the food is safe to consume. This step is crucial in food safety protocols, particularly in a food service environment, to maintain public health and prevent foodborne illnesses.

Preparing food at temperatures above 135 degrees allows for better safety, as it helps kill bacteria that could have developed during the cooking or holding process. Other options like discarding the food, refrigerating it, or checking again after an hour do not adequately address the immediate safety concerns associated with the food's current temperature.