Final answer:
True, the desired internal cooking temperature should be verified in two parts of the food to ensure even cooking and safety, as different areas might heat unevenly. Using a meat thermometer can help in reaching the correct, safe internal temperature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a desired internal cooking temperature has to be achieved in two parts of the food is true. This is because when cooking larger or uneven pieces of food, different parts can reach different temperatures. To ensure safety, it's important to check that the proper temperature has been reached throughout the item, particularly in the thickest and densest areas which are usually the last to reach the required temperature. Use of a meat thermometer is recommended to accurately measure the internal temperature. Foods that are not cooked to the right internal temperature can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. For example, bacteria multiply rapidly between 4 and 60 degrees C (40 and 140 degrees F), which is often referred to as the 'danger zone' for perishable foods. Ensuring food reaches the USDA-recommended safe internal temperatures is crucial for destroying harmful bacteria.