Malta: food temperature rules

“Law” is a binding rule. “Official guidance” is not law, but inspectors expect it. “Chef Hygiene default” is a value the app checks against where no rule gives a number.

• LawFood that can grow germs must not be kept above 8°C (S.L. 449.55, reg. 3).
• LawMTA licence standards: fish and meat at 0–3°C in every licensed restaurant, snack bar and kiosk. Vegetables, eggs and cooked food at 2–10°C. Thawing never above 10°C (S.L. 409.15).
• LawQuick-frozen food must be at −18°C or colder. It may rise briefly to −15°C in transport (S.L. 449.33, regs 5 and 6). The MTA standard for kitchens is also −18°C.
• LawHot food must be kept at 63°C or more. Food on display for under 2 hours that was not displayed before is a defence (S.L. 449.55, reg. 6). Chef Hygiene checks hot holding against 65°C, the MTA figure.
• LawMTA licence standards: buffet hot food and hot display counters at 65°C or more. Buffet cold food at 10°C or less (S.L. 409.15).
• LawCool cooked food as quickly as possible. The regulations give no time (S.L. 449.55, reg. 8). The public health booklet (HPDP, 2025) advises small shallow containers and no more than 1 hour out of the fridge.
• LawReheat food to a core temperature of at least 70°C, or higher if the food needs it (S.L. 449.55, reg. 10). The HPDP 2025 booklet advises 75°C.
• Official guidanceThe HPDP 2025 booklet advises cooking to 75°C, chilled food at 5°C or below and leftovers eaten within 2 days. This is public advice, not law.