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Food Safety Thermometers for Home Cooking

Use a clean probe to measure the centre of food, then clean and disinfect it before the next task. The correct instrument depends on whether you spot-check or monitor continuously.

A food safety thermometer helps you check whether heat has reached the centre of food rather than relying on colour alone. For UK home cooking, the Food Standards Agency gives time-and-temperature combinations and advises using a clean probe in the middle of the food.

Meat thermometers

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Common questions

Questions before you buy

What temperature shows food is safely cooked in the UK?

The Food Standards Agency lists equivalent time-and-temperature combinations, including 70°C for two minutes and 75°C for 30 seconds. Follow the current official guidance and any instructions specific to the food.

How do you use a probe thermometer for food safety?

Insert the clean tip into the centre or thickest part, avoiding bone and the tray. Allow the reading to settle, check another location where needed, then clean and disinfect the probe.

Can colour prove chicken or pork is cooked?

Colour is an imperfect indicator. A clean thermometer provides a direct core-temperature check alongside the cooking instructions.

How often should a food thermometer be checked?

Follow the maker’s calibration and verification instructions, and check after a drop or suspect reading. Food businesses should also follow their documented food-safety procedure.