What is the recommended temperature for dry heat sterilization for 1 hour?

The recommended temperature for dry heat sterilization for 1 hour is indeed 340 degrees F. This temperature is effective in achieving sterilization by allowing sufficient time for heat to penetrate and kill all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, which are among the most resistant forms of life.

Dry heat sterilization operates by using high temperatures to denature proteins and destroy bacterial cell membranes, effectively rendering pathogens inactive. The process requires a specific temperature and time combination to ensure that all potential contaminants are eliminated.

At 340 degrees F, the conditions are optimal for achieving this level of sterilization without compromising the integrity of the materials being sterilized. Other temperatures listed, while also potentially effective, may not be as universally recommended for the standard 1-hour exposure time to achieve the same degree of sterilization.