What should be used to ensure foods are cooked to safe temperatures?

Using a food thermometer is crucial for ensuring that foods are cooked to safe temperatures. This tool provides a precise measurement of the internal temperature of food, which is essential for killing harmful bacteria and preventing foodborne illnesses. Simply relying on visual cues or guesswork can be misleading, as foods may appear done on the outside while still being undercooked inside.

For instance, color indicators can sometimes be unreliable; just because the surface of meat changes color doesn't guarantee it has reached the necessary internal temperature. Additionally, using a kitchen timer might indicate cooking time but does not account for variations in oven performance or food density, which can affect actual cooking temperatures. A food thermometer removes the guesswork, allowing cooks to confidently verify that their food has reached the appropriate safe temperature, ensuring food safety for everyone consuming the meal.