Safe Preparation and Cooking of Food
What is the minimum internal cooking temperature for ground turkey patties?
- A175°F (79°C) instantaneously
- B155°F (68°C) for 17 seconds
- C145°F (63°C) for 15 seconds
- D165°F (74°C) instantaneously
Not A. 175°F (79°C) is hotter than the Food Code requires. Ground poultry is safe once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
D is right. According to the FDA Food Code, all poultry, whether whole, mechanically tenderized, or ground, must reach an internal cooking temperature of 165°F (74°C) instantaneously. Ground beef and pork require 155°F (68°C) for 17 seconds, which is a common distractor for handlers who confuse ground poultry with other ground meats. Temperatures of 145°F (63°C) apply to whole cuts of beef, pork, and seafood.