Measuring Equipments

Digital food Thermometers come in several types and style, and vary in level of technology and price.
 

Thermocouple

A thermocouple thermometer measure temperature at the junction of two fine wires located in the tip of the probe. Thermocouples used in scientific laboratories have very thin probes, similar to hypodermic needles, while other may have a thickness of 1/16 of an inch.

Speed
Of all digital thermometers, thermocouple thermometers display the final temperature the fastest - within 2 - 5 seconds. The temperature is indicated on a digital display.

Placement
1/4" or deeper in the food, as needed

Usage Consideration

• Give fastest reading

• good for measuring temperatures of thick & large foods, such as roasts or turkeys and thin foods such as hamburger patties, pork chops, and chicken breasts.

• Not designed to remain in food while it's cooking

• Check internal temperature of food near the end of cooking time

• Can be calibrated

• More costly; may be difficult for consumers to find in stores

Thermistors

Thermistor-style food thermometers use a resistor to measure temperature. Thickness of the probe is approximately 1/8 of an inch.

Speed
It takes roughly 10 seconds to register the temperature on the digital display.

Placement
At least 1/2" deep in the food.

Usage Consideration

• Give fast reading.

• can measure temperatures of thick and thin foods.

• Not designed to remain in food while it's cooking

• Check internal temperature of food near the end of cooking time.

• Some models can be calibrated; check manufacturer's instructions.

• Available in "Kitchen" stores.

Oven Cord Thermometers

A base unit with a digital screen is attached to a thermistor-type food thermometer probe by a long metal cord. The probe is inserted into the food, and the cord extends from the oven to the base unit. The thermometer is programmed for the desired temperature and beeps when it is reached.

Speed
It takes roughly 10 seconds to register the temperature on the digital display.

Placement
At least 1/2" deep in the food.

Usage Consideration

• can be used in most foods.

• Designed to remain in food while it's cooking in oven or in covered pot without opening the door/cover.

• can also be used outside the oven.

• Base unit can also sits on stovetop or counter by a magnet.

• Cannot be calibrated.

Thermometer Fork Combination

This utensil combines a cooking fork with a food thermometer. A temperature-sensing device is embedded in one of the tines of the fork. There are several different brands and styles of thermometer fork on the market; some using thermocouples and some using thermistors.

Speed
The food temperature is indicated on a digital display or by indicator lights on the handle within 2 to 10 seconds. These lights will tell if the food has reached rare, medium, well done, etc.

Placement
At least 1/4" in the thickest part of the food.

Usage Consideration

• can be used in most foods.

• Not designed to remain in food while it's cooking .

• Sensor in tine of fork must be fully inserted

• Check internal temperature of food near the end of cooking time.

• Useful and convenient for grilling.

• Cannot be calibrated.

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