Malaysia: 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.

• LawChilled food is kept between −1°C and 10°C, and frozen food at or below −18°C (Food Hygiene Regulations 2009, reg 38). Chiller and freezer thermometers are accurate to within 1°C. Chef Hygiene aims for 5°C in the fridge as good practice, not the law.
• LawA food warmer keeps food above 60°C, and food to be served chilled is cooled as soon as possible after cooking (reg 36).
• Official guidanceThe Ministry of Health's guidance (Trust MyCatering): cook and reheat meat and chicken to a core above 70°C (vegetables above 60°C), avoid reheating meat dishes where possible, don't put hot food straight into the fridge, and keep cooked food at room temperature 4 hours at most and in the fridge 3 days at most.
• Chef Hygiene defaultThe law sets no cooling time: Chef Hygiene checks 10°C or colder within 4 hours, and asks for fridge checks at opening and closing. Those are our choices.