What is the best way to monitor food temperature during cooking?

Using a food thermometer is the most reliable method for monitoring food temperature during cooking. This is because thermometers provide an accurate, objective measurement of the internal temperature of food, which is critical for ensuring it has reached a safe temperature to kill harmful pathogens. Different foods have specific minimum cooking temperatures that must be reached to prevent foodborne illness, and a thermometer ensures that these requirements are met.

Visual inspections, while helpful for assessing the appearance of food, cannot accurately gauge temperature. Timing the cooking process may offer a rough estimate but doesn’t account for variations in heat distribution and thickness of food items. Relying on experience can lead to inconsistencies, especially for less frequently handled items, as even seasoned cooks may not remember the exact cooking time for every type of food. Thus, using a food thermometer is the most effective and recommended practice for ensuring food safety during cooking.