When is it necessary to recalibrate a food thermometer?

The necessity to recalibrate a food thermometer before measuring food temperatures is fundamental to ensuring accuracy in temperature readings. Thermometers can become miscalibrated due to factors like temperature changes, physical impact, or prolonged use. By recalibrating before use, you ensure that the thermometer provides reliable and correct temperature measurements, which is critical for food safety. Accurate temperature readings help in preventing foodborne illnesses by ensuring that food is cooked, held, or cooled to safe temperatures.

Recalibrating at other intervals, such as at the end of the day, after every use, or once a month, may not adequately guarantee that the thermometer is accurate at the time of measurement. Hence, conducting recalibration right before measuring food ensures precision and safety in food handling practices.