What Temperature Should Meat Be Cooked To Avoid Parasites In The Body?

When you don't cook meat thoroughly, you run the risk of contamination that can lead to food poisoning and illness. Proper handling and preparation helps you make sure the meat you eat is free of dangerous pathogens and parasites. To prepare meat safely, you must heat it to the correct temperature when cooking.

Parasites

Bacteria, rather than parasites, cause the highest risk factor in food-borne illnesses. Parasites typically affect the food supply in countries where poor sanitation increases the likelihood of contamination, although some meats in America may also harbor parasites. Fresh-caught fish and wild game are the most likely source of parasites such as tapeworms, flukes, protozoa and roundworms, although packaged meats from the supermarket may also contain these parasites. Once ingested, parasites can cause various digestive disorders, including vomiting and diarrhea. Heating the meat helps kill the parasites, as well as any existing bacteria.

Temperatures

The United States Department of Agriculture recommends cooking ground lamb, pork and beef to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Roasts and steaks require a minimum temperature of 145 F, which results in medium-rare meat. Poultry requires higher cooking temperatures. The thickest part of the poultry should reach an internal temperature of at least 180 F when cooking whole birds, while individual chicken or turkey breasts require a cooking temperature of at least 170 F. A temperature of 145 F is safe when cooking fish. The length of time it takes to reach the required temperatures depends on the cooking method and the thickness of the cuts.

Considerations

In addition to cooking temperature, refrigeration and reheating also affect the safety of your meat. Washington State University advises reheating meat leftovers to at least 160 F. Meat stored at temperatures over 40 degrees F runs the greatest risk of contamination. Freezing meat, as well as curing, drying and smoking, also helps kill parasites.

Precautions

Contaminated meats can pose serious health dangers, especially for pregnant women and young children. Checking the color of meat does not give you an accurate gauge of its doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the meat is thoroughly cooked, and always reheat leftover meat before serving.