When a customer orders hot soup or coffee, they expect it to be warm and safe to drink—not something that could cause serious burns. But if hot liquids are too hot, not packaged correctly, or spilled because of weak containers, they can cause serious injuries. Restaurants, coffee shops, and other businesses need to take the right steps to keep customers safe and avoid legal trouble.
How Hot is Too Hot?
Hot liquids can cause burns in just a few seconds. Here’s how different temperatures affect the skin:
- 212°F (100°C) – Boiling water. Can cause instant burns.
- 180°F–200°F (82°C–93°C) – Common temperature for fresh coffee or soup. Can cause third-degree burns in less than a second.
- 160°F–175°F (71°C–79°C) – Still very hot. Some coffee shops serve drinks at this temperature.
- 130°F–150°F (54°C–65°C) – Hot enough to enjoy but much less likely to cause serious burns.
Liquids hotter than 156°F (69°C) can cause severe burns in just one second. If a restaurant serves food or drinks at extremely high temperatures without warning, it could be held responsible for any injuries.
Safe Serving Temperatures for Takeout
When customers dine in, they can let their food or drinks cool before drinking them. But with takeout, they may not realize how hot their food is until it spills.
To keep customers safe, restaurants should:
- Serve soup and drinks at a safe temperature (130°F–160°F).
- Tell customers if their order is hotter than 160°F with a warning label.
- Use safe, leak-proof packaging to prevent spills.
Best Ways to Package Hot Liquids
Using the right packaging helps prevent burns and spills. Restaurants should follow these rules:
1. Use Strong, Heat-Resistant Containers
- Pick sturdy containers that won’t melt or leak.
- Avoid cheap lids that can pop off too easily.
- Use insulated cups for hot drinks to protect hands.
2. Choose the Right Bag
- Do not use thin paper bags that can rip or get soggy.
- Use sturdy bags with handles that are made to carry hot food.
- Double-bag heavy orders for extra support.
3. Prevent Steam Build-Up
- Hot liquids release steam, which can build pressure inside containers.
- Use vented lids so steam can escape safely.
4. Label Hot Items Clearly
- Add a "Caution: Hot!" sticker to all hot food and drink containers.
- If a liquid is over 160°F, include a warning about the risk of burns.
5. Train Employees to Handle Hot Liquids Safely
- Teach employees to secure lids properly before handing food to customers.
- Remind them to keep hot liquids upright in bags.
- Have them warn customers if the food or drink is very hot.
Can a Business Be Sued for Hot Liquid Burns?
Yes. A restaurant or coffee shop can be legally responsible if a customer gets burned because of negligence. Some common legal claims include:
- Serving liquids at dangerous temperatures – If a drink or soup is so hot it causes instant burns, it may be considered unsafe.
- Improper packaging – If a weak bag or bad container causes a spill, the business may be responsible.
- No warning label – If customers are not warned about extreme heat, the restaurant could be at fault.
How Restaurants Can Protect Customers and Themselves
Hot liquids are part of everyday business for restaurants and coffee shops, but businesses must be careful. By keeping liquids at safe temperatures, using strong packaging, and training employees, they can reduce risks, keep customers safe, and avoid lawsuits.
At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help people who have been injured by unsafe food or drinks. If you or a loved one suffered a serious burn from dangerously hot liquid, contact us today for a free consultation.
Call us today for a free consultation. A lawyer is eager to speak with you.
