Food Safety Certification Practice Test

What is the maximum allowable internal temperature for cooking poultry?

1. 145°F

2. 160°F

3. 165°F

4. 180°F

The correct answer is: 165°F

The maximum allowable internal temperature for cooking poultry is 165°F. This temperature is crucial for ensuring that any harmful bacteria commonly found in poultry, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, are effectively killed, making the food safe for consumption. Cooking poultry to this temperature ensures that it reaches a point where the meat is not only safe to eat but also maintains its quality in terms of texture and flavor. The USDA recommends this temperature as part of its food safety guidelines to minimize the risks of foodborne illness. Other temperatures, while they may be for cooking different types of meats, do not provide the necessary safety margin for poultry. For example, cooking poultry at lower temperatures like 145°F or 160°F may not thoroughly eliminate all pathogens, leaving the food potentially unsafe.