There’s no more precise way to gauge your meat’s doneness than by looking at a meat thermometer. People who aren’t familiar with these devices, however, might wonder if it’s safe to put them inside the oven. If you’re inexperienced with using meat thermometers, then you’ve got to check out the research we’ve done on this subject.
Yes, you can leave your meat thermometer in the meat while it’s cooking as long as the thermometer’s manufacturer says it’s oven-safe. Thermometers that are safe for use while cooking should have a clear “oven-safe” label. If you don’t see any safety information on your thermometer’s packaging, then you need to reach out to the manufacturer and ask if it can be used while cooking.
If you’re interested in learning more about the proper way to use a meat thermometer, then be sure to check out the info below.
How Do You Know If A Meat Thermometer Is Oven Safe?
If a meat thermometer is oven safe, then the manufacturers will usually list it on the product. You shouldn’t have a difficult time figuring out whether your meat thermometer is oven safe after a quick scan of the product’s packaging.
If there aren’t any clear labels on your package, then you should assume the thermometer is not oven safe. Please call the manufacturer before placing your thermometer in the oven if you have any doubts or concerns.
SINARDO now offers an affordable stainless steel meat thermometer that is oven safe.
Click here to see more on Amazon.
How Do You Use A Meat Thermometer In The Oven?
To use a meat thermometer in the oven, all you have to do is stick it about two inches deep into whatever food you’re baking. For the most accurate reading, avoid placing your thermometer on bones or in fat.
When you notice the temperature on your thermometer is where you want it to be, then you should carefully remove your meat from the oven. Now, press the thermometer in a tiny bit and see if the temperature decreases. The internal temperature should remain stable if your meat is ready to eat.
How High Does A Meat Thermometer Go?
There’s no standard temperature range for meat thermometers, but most go up to at least 220° F. Typically, digital meat thermometers have a wider temperature range than classic dial thermometers. Believe it or not, there are now digital models that go well into the 550° F range.
If you’re looking for a non-oven-approved meat thermometer with a considerable temperature range, then check out this product put out by Harbor.
Click here to see more on Amazon.
What Temperatures Should I Look For In My Thermometer?
Of course, a meat thermometer won’t do you much good if you don’t know what temperatures to look for. To help you out in the kitchen, here’s a list of the safe minimum internal temps per the US Food Safety and Inspection Service.
- Poultry: cook to 165° F
- Beef, pork, and lamb: cook to 145° F
- Ground meat: cook to 160° F
- Fish & shellfish: 145° F
- Eggs: 160° F
FYI: if you’re interested in learning more about cooking a perfect steak, then you’ve got to check out this post: Can You Cook A Steak In A Nonstick Pan?
What Else Could You Use A Meat Thermometer For?
Although meat thermometers are obviously designed for meat, that doesn’t mean they don’t have alternative uses. Here are a few interesting ways you could use your meat thermometer at home.
Can I Use A Meat Thermometer To Take My Temperature?
Now that oral thermometers are flying off store shelves, many people are wondering whether they could use a meat thermometer to check for diseases like COVID-19. Interestingly, you could use a meat thermometer to get a reasonably accurate reading of your body temperature.
Of course, not all meat thermometers are created equal. For the most accurate results, you’re best bet is to use a digital thermometer with precise temperature estimates. Most of the traditional dial thermometers don’t offer accurate readings and might not register temperatures below 100° F.
For your safety, be sure to wipe your meat thermometer’s tip with a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe before and after sticking it under your tongue. Carefully hold the thermometer in your mouth for a few minutes and then read the temperature as you would a typical oral thermometer.
While using a meat thermometer is a great tool to use in a pinch, it’s no replacement for a thorough medical exam. If you suspect you are sick, then you should get in touch with your doctor ASAP.
Can I Use A Meat Thermometer For Frying Oil?
Digital meat thermometers with a wide temperature range might be safe to use in oils, but you should always ask your manufacturer beforehand. Remember, frying oil usually reaches temperatures between 350° - 450° F, so you don’t want to use a product that can’t handle these extremes.
If you do a lot of deep-frying, then you should consider buying a deep-fryer thermometer. Since these devices were made with deep-frying in mind, they are usually safer and easier to work with than meat thermometers.
Check out this deep-fry thermometer put out by KT THERMO.
Click here to see more on Amazon.
By the way, anyone interested in deep-frying might want to check out this guide: Top 10 Deep Fryers At Walmart
Can I Use A Meat Thermometer To Check My Fridge Temperature?
Just like checking frying oil, you could use certain meat thermometers to check the temperature of your fridge. In most cases, instant-read digital meat thermometers are the best way to gauge your fridge’s average temperature.
For the most accurate results, place a glass of water in your refrigerator for one full day. Next, take the glass out of your fridge and place the meat thermometer in the water. If you have a digital thermometer, it should only take a few moments for the temperature to appear on the screen.
According to the FDA, the optimal temperature for the refrigerator is 40° F or below. The temperature in your freezer should never go below 0° F.
Just so you know, there are thermometers made specifically to gauge refrigerator and freezer temperatures. For instance, take a look at this popular Rubbermaid product.
Click here to see more on Amazon.
Using a meat thermometer is far more accurate than the old school “poke tests.” Whether you opt for an oven-safe thermometer or not, having one of these devices will serve you well as you cook and serve your meals.
