A guide to thermometers

Monitoring and controlling the temperature of food is fundamental to food safety. Utilising a variety of thermometers ensures that foods are maintained and cooked to suitable temperatures outside the danger zone, avoiding unnecessary incidents of food poisoning.

The diverse range of thermometer categories includes those designed for specific applications such as refrigerator and freezer, oven, or dishwasher. At the same time, universal digital and dial probe options are suitable for general use within the kitchen. Regardless of the service, the food thermometer probe should be washed in hot, soapy water or cleaned with a probe wipe after each use. This is vital for preventing cross-contamination.

Digital     

Digital thermometers are an attractive temperature monitoring solution due to the ease of readability and accuracy. The Fildes Food Safety mini digital probe thermometer can read an extensive range of temperatures from -40°C to 232°C, with an accuracy of ±1°C and response time of fewer than 6 seconds. Additionally, digital thermometers can offer a host of extra features, with allergen-safe, USB rechargeable and foldable options available.

Dial

Dial thermometers feature a more traditional style with the face reading similar to a clock. The Fildes Food Safety range of dial thermometers are suitable for several uses, with particular reference to the deep fry and meat dial versions designed to meet the varied needs within the kitchen. The deep fryer thermometer measures a temperature range 38°C to 205°C, with a dial size of 50mm, while the meat dial reads a range of 54°C to 88°C on a 64mm dial face.

Infrared

The popularity of infrared thermometers increased throughout the COVID-19 pandemic due to their ability to measure the body temperature of humans. However, this type of thermometer is also suitable for use within the kitchen, with a HACCP certified option available from Fildes Food Safety, which is appropriate for identifying potentially unsafe foods with HACCP check lights and a temperature range of -30°C to 200°C. 

Hygro

Hygro thermometers are used to measure both temperature and humidity, which can be helpful within the kitchen for identifying moisture within the air that could potentially increase the rate of growth of harmful bacteria. The Fildes Food Safety jumbo display hygro thermometer comes with the added features of an alarm and ice point alert.

Specific use

Outside of the standard range of thermometers suitable for general use within the kitchen, some are designed for specific services to ensure optimal effectiveness. Examples of specialised thermometers include those intended for use within the refrigerator, freezer, oven or dishwasher. These thermometers continually provide an accurate temperature reading for the interior of each essential kitchen appliance to assist in monitoring and ensuring that safe temperatures are maintained.

Thermometers are a kitchen essential. Visit the Fildes Food Safety website to discover the full range of food-safe thermometers for temperature control and monitoring.