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IR Thermometers for Cooking: What They Can Measure

An infrared thermometer quickly checks surface temperature, making it useful for griddles, pans and pizza stones. It cannot tell you the internal temperature of meat.

An IR thermometer for cooking reads infrared energy from a surface. Point it at a griddle, skillet, fryer surface or pizza stone for a fast non-contact check, but remember that the laser is only an aiming aid and the instrument averages an area that grows with distance.

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Common questions

Questions before you buy

Can you use an IR thermometer for cooking?

Yes, for surface checks such as pans, griddles and pizza stones. Stay within the stated range and follow the distance-to-spot guidance.

Can an infrared thermometer check meat doneness?

It can read only the meat's surface, not its coldest internal point. Use a penetration probe to confirm internal temperature.

Why are infrared readings inaccurate on shiny metal?

Reflective surfaces have low or variable emissivity and can reflect surrounding infrared energy. Follow the meter maker's guidance or measure a suitable nonreflective target.

How close should an IR thermometer be to food?

Close enough that the instrument's measurement spot fits entirely on the target. Use its published distance-to-spot ratio rather than aiming by laser alone.