Irish survey finds rise in meat thermometer ownership

More than a third of people surveyed in Northern Ireland own a meat thermometer, according to recent research.

Safefood is encouraging everyone to “Trust the Meat Thermometer” this barbecue season. Safefood is an agency that promotes food safety and nutrition on the island of Ireland.

At 38 percent, more than a third of home barbecue cooks now own a meat thermometer – a 20 percent rise since the campaign began in 2022. Also, nearly a third of those who don’t yet own one say they plan to buy one. Safefood said this signals a shift in cooking habits and a stronger focus on food safety.

Safefood warned that undercooked meat remains a common risk at summer barbecues – especially when judged by sight alone. Food like burgers, chicken, and sausages that look ready on the outside can still be raw inside. The only reliable way to ensure food is safe to eat is by using a meat thermometer to check it has reached a core temperature of 75 degrees C (167 degrees F).

Shift in public attitudes
Dr. Gary Kearney, chief executive of Safefood, said: “It’s encouraging to see a growing number of people in Northern Ireland placing greater importance on food safety and adopting the use of meat thermometers at home. In just a few short years, we’ve witnessed a positive shift in public attitudes – with more home cooks feeling confident and informed about how to cook meat safely.

“Our message is simple, whether you’re a seasoned barbecue enthusiast or trying it for the first time, a meat thermometer is the most reliable tool you can use. It removes uncertainty and offers peace of mind that you won’t cause anybody to suffer from food poisoning.”

Other outdoor cooking tips include cleaning the grill thoroughly before and after use to avoid contamination from old grease or food residues; store cooked leftovers within two hours, consume within three days and only reheat leftovers once; and never cook meat directly from frozen.

Radio presenter and podcaster Jordan Arnold is backing this year’s campaign.

“Being married to a chef has made me much more aware of how important food safety is – especially when it comes to cooking meat properly. It’s no secret I’m not exactly a pro at cooking, but using a meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out – so it’s now an essential part of my routine,” Arnold said.

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