Types of Meat Thermometers

There are several types of meat thermometers available in the market. They are available at the grocery, hardware or kitchen supply stores. The most common types of meat thermometers include:

• Microwave-safe types which are designed to be used specifically only in a microwave ovens.

• Regular oven-proof types which go into the food at the beginning of the cooking time and can be read easily. Stays in the oven while cooking.

• Instant-read and digital types which are not intended to be left in the food while cooking in the oven. It gives you a quick reading when inserted into the food and can be read easily.

• Pop-up types which are commonly found in poultry but may be purchased for other types of meats too.

When purchasing a thermometer, ensure that your purchase is designed for meat and poultry. There are other types of thermometers available too like candy thermometer. Read the manufacturer's packaging label carefully to ensure than you are buying the type designed for use with meats and not something else. Also look for an easy to read dial, made with stainless steel and a shatter-proof clear lens. Meat thermometers that can be calibrated for accuracy and digital thermometers are also available.

To check for the accuracy of the thermometer, dip it into boiling water for 20 seconds (instant-read thermometer) or 3 minutes (for regular meat thermometer). It should read 212^oF, which is the temperature at which water boils. If you are not getting that reading, you will need to adjust or calibrate the thermometer.