Final answer:
To ensure food safety, use a thermometer to check the temperature of milk, coleslaw, or sour cream, ensuring the food is stored at safe temperatures below 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) for cold foods and above 60 degrees C (140 degrees F) for hot foods.
Step-by-step explanation:
To check the temperature of miscellaneous food items such as milk, coleslaw, or sour cream, it is best to use a food thermometer. This ensures that the food has been kept at a safe temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria and to ensure food safety. According to the principles of food safety, perishable foods should be kept at or below 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) and hot foods should be kept at 60 degrees C (140 degrees F) or above.
When checking the temperature of these types of food, insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part or in the center of the product to obtain an accurate reading. For items like milk or sour cream, ensure that the probe is submerged into the product without touching the sides of the container to avoid an inaccurate temperature reading. Regular monitoring of food temperatures helps prevent foodborne illnesses, especially after receiving shipments where the control of food temperature is crucial during transit.