Final answer:
To get an accurate reading, insert the thermometer probe into the center or thickest part of the product, ensuring that it is measuring the internal product temperature and not influenced by the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
To get an accurate temperature reading, the thermometer stem or probe should be inserted into the thickest part of the product, which is typically the center or core of the mass. This is because the outer areas might be influenced by the temperature of the environment, giving a less accurate reading of the internal temperature that needs to be measured for safety.
For liquids, such as soups or sauces, the probe should be placed below the surface but not touching the container sides or bottom. It is also important to make sure that the thermometer is reading the temperature of the actual product and not the temperature of the air around the product or the container that holds it.
In summary, insert the thermometer probe deeply enough to be in the product's center, avoiding bones in meats, sides, and bottoms of containers in liquids. Ensure the thermometer is not affected by the external environment but measures the internal product temperature accurately.