How can you determine if food is fully cooked?

Using a food thermometer to measure the internal temperature is the safest and most reliable method for determining if food is fully cooked. Different types of food require specific minimum internal temperatures to ensure harmful bacteria are killed and the food is safe to consume. For example, poultry must reach an internal temperature of 165°F, while ground meats should reach at least 160°F.

Relying on color, cooking time, or taste can be misleading. Color alone does not guarantee that the food has reached a safe temperature, as some meats can appear safe while still harboring pathogens. Likewise, cooking time can vary based on several factors such as the thickness of the food and the cooking method used, making it an unreliable indicator of safety. Finally, tasting food is not a safe practice to determine doneness, as consuming undercooked food can lead to foodborne illnesses. Using a food thermometer ensures that food has reached the safe temperature necessary for safe consumption.