Final answer:
An infrared thermometer is the best choice for measuring food and equipment surfaces as it does not need to come into direct contact and provides quick and accurate temperature readings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best thermometer for measuring food and equipment surfaces is an infrared thermometer.
Unlike the other options listed, such as the bimetallic stemmed thermometer, thermocouple, and thermistor, an infrared thermometer does not need to come into direct contact with the surface being measured.
Instead, it measures the infrared radiation emitted by the surface, allowing for quick and accurate temperature readings without the risk of cross-contamination.