Final answer:
An infrared thermometer is used to read the temperature of a food item without touching it, by measuring the infrared radiation emitted by the item. It provides a fast and safe way to ensure the food reaches a temperature high enough to kill any bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the temperature of a food item without making contact, you would use an infrared thermometer. This type of thermometer reads the infrared radiation emitted by the object, which can be correlated to its temperature. In contrast to alcohol-based or liquid crystal thermometers that require physical contact, an infrared thermometer measures temperature from a distance without contamination risk, making it ideal for food safety applications. They are frequently used to ensure that food reaches a high enough temperature to kill any bacteria it may contain, as is recommended when cooking or storing perishable items. Infrared thermometers can produce a quick temperature readout, which is particularly useful in a fast-paced kitchen environment.