Meat Cooking Temperature Guide

Meat cooking temperature is a crucial aspect of ensuring that your meat is safe to eat and cooked to perfection. Different types of meat require different cooking temperatures in order to be fully cooked and safe to consume. Here is our comprehensive guide on meat cooking temperatures to help you achieve delicious and safe meals every time.

Beef 

Beef is a popular protein and can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, and pan-searing. The recommended cooking temperature for beef varies based on the cut and the desired level of doneness.

Here are the recommended cooking temperatures for beef:

- Medium-rare: 135°F to 140°F

- Medium: 145°F to 155°F

- Medium-well: 155°F to 165°F

- Well done: 165°F and above 

Pork 

Pork is a versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to slow cooking. Despite popular belief, pork does not need to be fully cooked to be safe to eat. Gone are the days of overcooked and tough pork. With the advancements in farming practices, pork can now be safely consumed at a lower internal temperature.

We recommend cooking our pork to 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest time before serving. However, ground pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F. This will ensure a consistent outcome for all your pork dishes.

Here are the recommended cooking temperatures for pork: -

- Medium-rare: 145°F to 150°F

- Medium: 150°F to 155°F

- Well done: 160°F and above 

Chicken

Chicken is a lean, white meat that is a staple in many households. However, it is important to cook chicken thoroughly to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses. Chicken, turkey, and other poultry have a higher risk of harboring bacteria, therefore, it is crucial to cook them thoroughly. The recommended cooking temperature for poultry is 165°F for all cuts, including breasts, thighs, and drumsticks. Make sure to check the internal temperature in several places, as different parts of the bird may cook at different rates. 

Here are the recommended cooking temperatures for chicken:

- Whole chicken: 165°F 

- Chicken breasts: 165°F

- Chicken thighs and drumsticks: 170°F 

Ground Meat

Ground meat, such as beef, pork, or turkey, should be be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F in order to kill any bacteria that may be present. 

Ground Poultry

Ground poultry, including chicken, turkey, or duck, should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

General tips:

1. Use a meat thermometer 

The most accurate way to determine the internal temperature of meat is by using a meat thermometer. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones, and wait for the reading to stabilize. 

2. Look for visual cues 

If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can still determine the doneness of your meat by using visual cues. For beef, you can use the "finger test" to check for doneness – a rare steak will feel soft when pressed, medium will have a slight bounce, and well-done will feel firm to the touch. 

3. Let meat rest before cutting 

After cooking meat, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a more tender and flavorful meat.

In conclusion, cooking meat to the right temperature is crucial for both safety and flavor. By following these recommended cooking temperatures and using a meat thermometer, you can ensure that your meat is cooked to perfection every time. So next time you're planning to cook meat, refer to this guide and enjoy a delicious and safe meal.