How often should food thermometers be calibrated?

Food thermometers should be calibrated at least once a day or as needed to ensure their accuracy in measuring temperatures. This is crucial for food safety because improper temperature readings can lead to undercooked food or food that has been held at unsafe temperatures, both of which can pose serious health risks.

Calibrating ensures that the thermometer provides precise readings, which is essential for cooking meats to safe internal temperatures and holding foods at appropriate temperatures to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Calibration could also be necessary more frequently when the thermometer is subjected to extreme conditions, such as being dropped or exposed to high temperatures, which can affect its accuracy.

Having a consistent calibration routine, especially in high-volume food preparation settings, helps maintain food safety standards, thus protecting consumers' health.