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Meat thermometers
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Best Meat Thermometers for Cooking Turkey
ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE is our top choice for checking several parts of a turkey quickly. ThermoWorks DOT is the simpler leave-in option, while MEATER Pro Duo suits cooks who want two wire-free probes and remote alerts.
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Buying guide
Where to Put a Meat Thermometer in a Turkey
Put the sensing tip in the thickest meat of the breast or inner thigh, clear of bone and the cavity. Check both areas and the stuffing rather than relying on one spot.
How to Use a Meat Thermometer for Turkey
Check the thickest breast and inner thigh without touching bone. For a whole turkey, Health Canada lists 82°C as the safe internal temperature.
What Meat Thermometer Temperature Is Safe for Turkey?
Health Canada lists 82°C for whole poultry and 74°C for poultry pieces. Check the thickest areas with a clean food thermometer.
Common questions
Questions before you buy
Where does a meat thermometer go in turkey?
Place it in the thickest meat, commonly the breast and inner thigh area, without touching bone. Verify another spot before deciding the bird is ready.
Can I leave a thermometer in turkey while cooking?
Only if its instructions identify the probe as oven-safe and leave-in. Remove handheld instant-read thermometers after each check.
What temperature should a whole turkey reach?
Health Canada's current chart lists 82°C for whole poultry. Stuffing has its own listed target of 74°C and should be checked separately.
Why should I check more than one place in a turkey?
Large birds heat unevenly. Multiple readings help find the coolest section rather than relying on one warmer point.