How often should food thermometers be calibrated?

The recommended practice is to calibrate food thermometers before each use and periodically as needed to ensure accurate readings. This is crucial in a food safety context, as precise temperature measurements are essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. Calibration helps verify that the thermometer provides reliable temperature readings, especially as equipment may experience inaccuracies over time due to wear or changes in conditions.

Calibrating before each use ensures that any potential discrepancies are caught before the thermometer is used in food handling or cooking processes. Periodic checks help maintain the accuracy of the thermometer throughout its lifespan, accommodating any shifts that may occur. This vigilance in calibration contributes significantly to safe food handling practices, helping to ensure that foods are cooked to the proper temperatures and stored safely to avoid the risk of foodborne pathogens.