What Is the Safe Internal Temperature for Cooking Turkey: 165°F vs 170°F?

Learn why turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and how to accurately check it with a meat thermometer.

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Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the meat is safe and properly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast and thigh without touching bone.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why should turkey be cooked to 165°F instead of 170°F? Cooking turkey to 165°F ensures the meat is safe to eat by killing harmful bacteria while preventing it from drying out, which can happen at higher temperatures like 170°F.
  2. Where should I measure the temperature when cooking turkey? Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the turkey breast and thigh, making sure not to touch any bones, for an accurate internal temperature reading.
  3. Can I use a meat thermometer to judge if my turkey is done? Yes, a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to confirm that the turkey has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Watch More

For more tips on perfectly cooking poultry and other meats safely, check out our detailed guides on using meat thermometers and holiday cooking techniques.

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