A food handler puts a thermometer into pot of soup that is being hot-held the reading 139 F 59 C Can serve soup?

No, the soup cannot be served.

* In the US, the safe temperature for hot-held food is 140°F (60°C).

* The soup is currently at 139°F (59°C), which is below the safe temperature.

Serving food below the recommended temperature increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illness. The food handler should heat the soup to at least 140°F (60°C) before serving.