What is the acceptable minimum internal cooking temperature for poultry products?

The acceptable minimum internal cooking temperature for poultry products is 165°F. This temperature is critical to ensure that harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are commonly found in poultry, are effectively destroyed, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Cooking poultry to this minimum temperature ensures that the meat reaches a point where it is safe to consume, as proteins in the bacteria begin to denature and lose their ability to infect when exposed to adequate heat. It's important for food safety regulations to specify this temperature, as improper cooking can lead to serious health risks. The establishment of 165°F is based on research and guidelines from food safety authorities, including the USDA.

For optimal food safety, using a food thermometer to check that poultry has reached this temperature at its thickest part is a best practice that all food handlers should follow.