Final answer:
To make sure the internal temperature of food is safe, a food thermometer should be used. This tool helps in attaining the recommended safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne diseases. Regular monitoring of refrigeration temperatures ensures food safety, especially during power outages.
Step-by-step explanation:
To ensure the internal temperature of food is safe, it is recommended to use a food thermometer. The thermometer provides an accurate measurement of the inside temperature of cooked foods, such as meat, poultry, and others, which is crucial for determining if the food has reached a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria. A food thermometer can be a traditional dial type or a digital type, both of which come with their own Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature scales. When cooking, it's important to reach and maintain the food at a safe internal temperature. For example, many types of meat need to reach at least 74 degrees C (165 degrees F) to ensure their safety. Insert the food thermometer into the thickest part of the food, away from bone, fat, or gristle for the most accurate reading.
Regular monitoring of refrigeration and freezing temperatures are also important. Keeping the refrigerator at or below 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) and the freezer below -18 degrees C (0 degrees F) helps inhibit bacterial growth. Devices like a built-in thermometer or one purchased separately can be used to constantly monitor these temperatures, especially during a power outage where the safe temperature range must be maintained to prevent food spoilage.