How often should food thermometers be calibrated?

Calibrating food thermometers regularly or when they are used or dropped is essential for ensuring accurate temperature readings, which are critical for food safety. Accurate thermometers help prevent foodborne illnesses by ensuring food is cooked to safe temperatures and stored at appropriate levels.

Regular calibration accounts for any potential shifts in the thermometer's accuracy over time due to factors such as temperature fluctuations, mechanical impact, or wear and tear. Dropping a thermometer can disrupt its internal components, leading to inaccuracies, so recalibrating after an incident ensures that it continues to deliver reliable results.

This approach is aligned with best practices in food safety, as it emphasizes the importance of consistent monitoring and precision in serving food safely.