Which statement is true about cooking poultry?

Which statement is true about cooking poultry?

• A. It can be served rare
• B. It is safe to eat when pink inside
• C. It must be cooked thoroughly
• D. It should be cured before cooking

Answer: (C)

Safe cooking of poultry hinges on destroying any harmful bacteria that may be present. Poultry must be cooked thoroughly to a safe internal temperature to ensure this. The recommended target is 165°F (74°C) reached in the thickest part of the meat, away from bone, using a calibrated thermometer. This guarantees that all parts reach enough heat to kill pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter, even if the meat looks pink in some areas. Color and juiciness are not reliable indicators of doneness. Curing poultry before cooking isn’t a standard safety step; poultry is typically roasted, grilled, or fried without curing.

Safe cooking of poultry hinges on destroying any harmful bacteria that may be present. Poultry must be cooked thoroughly to a safe internal temperature to ensure this. The recommended target is 165°F (74°C) reached in the thickest part of the meat, away from bone, using a calibrated thermometer. This guarantees that all parts reach enough heat to kill pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter, even if the meat looks pink in some areas. Color and juiciness are not reliable indicators of doneness. Curing poultry before cooking isn’t a standard safety step; poultry is typically roasted, grilled, or fried without curing.