What is the safe temperature for cooked beef, pork, lamb, and veal?

The safe cooking temperature for beef, pork, lamb, and veal is 145°F. This temperature is recommended by food safety guidelines to ensure that harmful bacteria that may be present in these meats are effectively killed. Cooking to this temperature helps reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, including those caused by pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.

At 145°F, these meats should be held for at least three minutes to ensure safety. This practice is crucial in the culinary field, as it emphasizes not only the need for proper cooking temperatures but also the importance of understanding time and temperature relationships in cooking.

It's essential to use a food thermometer to verify that the meat has reached the target temperature. By ensuring that meat is cooked to the appropriate temperature, food handlers can maintain high food safety standards and protect consumers from potential health risks associated with undercooked meat.