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Food For Thought - Newsletter Archives

Thermometer Calibration

Foods cooked, stored and held at the proper temperatures do not allow bacteria to grow.  If bacteria do not grow, then people who eat the food will not get food borne illness.  Proper use of a thermometer can help assure that the food prepared in your kitchen is safe to eat.  You have a food temperature log maintained in your kitchen, but have you ever wondered if the temperatures are accurate?  Thermometer calibration is imperative in assuring an accurate temperature reading.


Slush method for calibrating a bi- metallic thermometer:                

  • Fill an insulated container, such as a foam cup, with a 50/50 ice and water mix.
  • Allow time for the mixture to reach 32 degrees F (0 degrees C) temperature.
  • Insert the bi-metallic stemmed thermometer into the center of the cup, away from the sides and bottom.  Do not let the stem touch the sides of the cup.
  • Hold thermometer until the temperature stabilizes and record the temperature.
  • Repeat two times to verify the temperature reading.
  • If the temperature is not 32 degrees F (0 degrees C), adjust the calibration nut located under the top of the thermometer to adjust the temperature to 32 degrees F (0 degrees C).
  • Calibrate regularly, daily if possible.

Review the above procedure with your staff today to assure good food handling practice, accurate temperatures and safe food.          

 

At Nutrition Care Systems, Inc, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive tools to the LTC industry.  If you’re in need of other policies and procedures for LTC, please contact us or browse our Policy & Procedure Manuals here.                     

 
 
Food For Thought - Newsletter Archives

Previous Newsletter Articles

  • July 2009
    Summertime Grilling Safety TipsSummertime and outdoor grilling go hand in hand when it comes to the warm months, but a foodborne illness can ruin a perfect picnic or cookout.  However, a little bit of planning can prevent a foodborne illness from occurring which happens so often in the warm summer…
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  • April 2009
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  • March 2009
    When In Doubt, Throw It OutAs consultant dietitians, we are asked many questions regarding food spoilage: How long can I keep leftovers in the refrigerator? How long can I keep meat in the freezer? How can I prevent food spoilage? Don’t let spoiled food spoil your business. Read more for…
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  • July 2008
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  • October 2008
    A Calibrated Thermometer is an Essential Tool in Food Service


    The regular and consistent use of a calibrated probe thermometer in any food service is an indispensable tool. It helps any food service protect their customers from foodborne illnesses which are a major health concern to…
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  • September 2008
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    A new group of health care consumers has begun to utilize the services of long term care. These are the Baby Boomers who total approximately 78 million, born between 1946 and 1964. These men and women, some of whom have reached…
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  • January 2009
    Nutrition Services for the Healthcare Industry of the Future

    The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently released the newly revised nutrition and sanitation regulations and investigative guidelines to surveyors. Slated to become effective September 1, 2008, the intent of F 325 ( previously F…
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  • November 2009
    Thermometer CalibrationFoods cooked, stored and held at the proper temperatures do not allow bacteria to grow.  If bacteria do not grow, then people who eat the food will not get food borne illness.  Proper use of a thermometer can help assure that the food prepared in your kitchen is safe…
    Read more...
  • March 2009
    Salmonella Outbreak in Peanut ButterRecently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended that products containing peanut butter be eliminated from consumer’s diets until further information becomes available. At least 474 people in 43 states have been sickened by peanut butter and peanut paste,…
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  • August 2008
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