How can staff ensure proper cooking temperatures?

Using a food thermometer is essential for ensuring that food is cooked to safe temperatures. This practice is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses, as different types of food have specific temperature requirements that must be met to kill harmful bacteria. Estimating cooking temperature with hands, relying only on cooking time, or visually inspecting food can lead to inaccuracies. For instance, some foods may appear cooked on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside, which can pose health risks. A food thermometer provides a precise measurement, helping staff confirm that food reaches the minimum safe internal temperatures as recommended by food safety guidelines. Thus, using a food thermometer is the most reliable method for ensuring food safety through proper cooking temperatures.