Using a food thermometer
Insert the thermometer through the thickest part of the meat, all the way to the middle, not touching any bone.
For burgers, insert food thermometer through the side of the patty.
Check each piece separately if you have more than one piece.
Use a digital thermometer for more accurate readings.
Cooking temperatures
Pork (ham, pork loin, ribs)
Ground pork (burgers, meatballs, sausages) 71°C (160°F)
Pieces and whole cuts 71°C (160°F)
Poultry (chicken, turkey, duck)
Ground poultry (burgers, meatballs, sausages) 74°C (165°F)
Frozen raw breaded chicken products (nuggets, fingers, strips, burgers) 74°C (165°F)
Pieces (wings, breasts, legs, thighs) 74°C (165°F)
Stuffing (cooked alone or in bird) 74°C (165°F)
Whole 82°C (180°F)
Egg dishes 74°C (165°F)
Seafood
Fish 70°C (158°F)
Shellfish (shrimp, lobster, crab, scallops, clams, mussels, oysters) 74°C (165°F) **Discard any that do not open when cooked
Leftovers
Heat Leftovers to 74°C (165°F)
Cleaning and preparation
Clean your food thermometer in warm, soapy water before each use.
Always wash your hands before and after you touch raw meat.
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds, or with an alcohol-based hand rub.
If you've used a plate or utensils to handle raw food, don't use them again until you've washed them thoroughly.
Use separate cutting boards for produce and raw meat.
Use paper towels to wipe kitchen surfaces, or change dishcloths daily. Avoid using sponges, as they are harder to keep bacteria-free.
Sanitize counter-tops, cutting boards, and utensils before and after preparing food.
Keep cold food cold and hot food hot, so that your food never reaches the "temperature danger zone" where bacteria can grow quickly and cause food poisoning.