Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

What is a safe minimum cooking temperature for poultry?

1. 145°F

2. 160°F

3. 165°F

4. 180°F

The correct answer is: 165°F

The safe minimum cooking temperature for poultry is 165°F. This temperature is critical because it ensures that harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are commonly found in poultry, are effectively killed. Cooking poultry to this temperature not only enhances food safety but also helps to prevent foodborne illnesses that can arise from undercooked meats. Poultry is particularly susceptible to contamination, and reaching 165°F guarantees that the meat has been heated sufficiently throughout to eliminate pathogens. This standard is based on food safety guidelines and is endorsed by health authorities, including the USDA. In contrast, lower temperatures, such as 145°F, 160°F, or 180°F, may not provide the same level of safety for poultry, as they do not adequately kill the pathogens. Although other meats may have different safe cooking temperatures, poultry specifically requires that higher threshold to ensure consumer safety.