When does the 4-hour hold time for tomatoes begin?

The 4-hour hold time for tomatoes begins once they are cored. This timing is vital for food safety and quality in a restaurant setting where fresh ingredients are used. Cored tomatoes are more susceptible to microbial growth due to their exposed interior, which is why the hold time starts at this stage.

Understanding the timing for hold times is important for maintaining the safety and integrity of food served in a fast-food environment. Starting the timer after coring rather than at other stages like slicing, cooking, or refrigeration ensures that the tomatoes are handled properly to minimize the risk of spoilage or foodborne illness.