Which food should be cooked to at least 145°F?

The appropriate temperature of 145°F is specifically targeted for cooking fish to ensure that it is safe for consumption. Cooking fish to this temperature helps eliminate harmful pathogens like parasites and bacteria that can be present. This temperature guideline is crucial because, unlike other meats, fish can be consumed safely at lower temperatures if handled correctly, but 145°F is the standard recommended for optimal safety.

In contrast, the other food items listed require higher cooking temperatures to be safe. Chicken breast should reach at least 165°F to kill pathogens like Salmonella. Ground beef is recommended to be cooked to 160°F to eliminate the risk of E. coli and other harmful bacteria. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a three-minute rest time to ensure safety, which is a bit different than fish because the safety concern with pork includes avoiding undercooked meat that can harbor Trichinella spiralis, a parasite historically associated with pork.

Understanding these specific temperature requirements is essential for food safety and helps prevent foodborne illnesses.