Question: what are the requirements for cooling food?
Answer: The general rule: Foods that need time and temperature control for safety (TCS food, for short) must be cooled from 135˚F (57˚C) to 41˚F (5˚C) or lower within six hours. Follow these guidelines: First, cool food from 135˚F to 70˚F (57˚C to 21˚C) within two hours.