Food safety is one of the most important factors in the foodservice industry. Ensuring that food is cooked and stored at the correct temperatures is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain the quality of the food. One essential tool for achieving this is a foodservice thermometer. Foodservice thermometers come in various types, each designed for specific culinary applications. Below are the different types of foodservice thermometers commonly used in restaurants and other foodservice operations.
Digital Thermometers
Digital thermometers have gained popularity in recent years due to their accuracy and ease of use. They provide quick temperature readings and often come with additional features such as memory recall and programmable alarms. Digital thermometers are available in various designs to suit different applications.
Analog Thermometers
Analog thermometers, also known as dial thermometers, are the traditional type of thermometer with a dial or pointer display. They are reliable and easy to read, although they may not offer the same level of precision as digital thermometers. Analog thermometers are a cost-effective option and can be suitable for situations where precise measurements are not crucial.
Pocket Thermometers
Pocket thermometers are compact and portable, designed to fit easily into a chef's pocket. They are commonly used for spot-checking temperatures during cooking and food preparation. Pocket thermometers usually have a digital or analog display and a thin probe for insertion into food or liquids.
Thin Tip Thermometers
Thin tip thermometers, as the name suggests, have a slender and sharp probe for fast and accurate readings. They are ideal for measuring the internal temperature of delicate foods such as fish, poultry, and baked goods without damaging the exterior.
Long-Stem Thermometers
Long-stem thermometers are characterized by their extended probes, which allow for reaching into deep pots, vats, or roasting pans. These thermometers are suitable for large-scale cooking operations and are commonly used in commercial kitchens and catering services.
Oven Thermometers
Oven thermometers are specifically designed to monitor the temperature inside ovens accurately. They help ensure that the oven is calibrated correctly, and that the desired cooking temperature is achieved. Oven thermometers can be digital or analog and are often placed inside the oven to provide real-time temperature readings.
Grill Surface Thermometers
Grill surface thermometers are used to measure the temperature of grills, griddles, and hot plates. These thermometers are designed to withstand high heat and provide accurate temperature readings of the cooking surface. These thermometers help chefs maintain precise cooking temperatures, especially for searing or grilling meat.
Candy/Deep Fry Thermometers
Candy and deep fry thermometers are used for monitoring the temperature of hot oil or syrup when making candy or deep-frying foods. These thermometers are designed to withstand high temperatures and have a long probe to reach into deep pots or vats. They ensure that the oil or syrup reaches the desired temperature for perfect results.
Thermocouple Thermometers
Thermocouple thermometers are highly accurate and offer rapid temperature readings. They use two different metals to measure temperature changes and are commonly used in professional kitchens. Thermocouple thermometers are versatile and can be used for a wide range of culinary applications, including sous vide cooking.
Infrared Thermometers
Infrared thermometers are non-contact thermometers that measure temperature by detecting the thermal radiation emitted by an object. They are commonly used in foodservice to measure the surface temperature of items such as grills, ovens, or food storage units. Infrared thermometers provide instant readings without the need for direct contact.
Probe-style Thermometers
Probe-style thermometers consist of a base unit and a probe connected by a wire. The base unit displays the temperature, while the probe is inserted into the food or liquid being measured. The probe can be made of stainless steel or other heat-resistant materials, and it comes in different lengths and thicknesses to suit different types of food and containers.
Need help selecting the right thermometer for your foodservice operation? Call 404-752-6715 to speak to one of our product specialists.
