the act or process of reducing the size or volume of something by or as if by pressing most substances undergo contraction when cooled Synonyms compacting, compaction, condensation, condensing, constricting, constriction, contracting, compression, squeeze, squeezing, telescopingRelated Words abbreviation, abridgment (or abridgement), curtailment, ...
The possibility of bacterial growth actually increases as food cools after cooking because the drop in temperature allows bacteria to thrive. But you can keep your food above the safe temperature of 140ËF by using a heat source like a chafing dish, warming tray, or slow cooker.
Bacteria grow best at temperatures between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F. They multiply very rapidly at those temperatures in ideal strata - that is, perishable foods like meat and dairy products. That's why it's so important to keep perishable foods refrigerated at temperatures below 40 degrees F.