Infrared Digital Thermometer
An infrared digital thermometer is a special type of thermometer that works without having to touch the food or object in question.
Infrared thermometers are a simple operation that works like a hand held gun; you just point and click to receive an instant temperature reading. Most of these thermometers have a switch or button to press so you can change readings between Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Infrared technology is used extensively in the military and various walks of life where images need to be seen more clearly in the dark. Infrared light is natural and harmless electromagnetic radiation that glows white when warm and therefore can be seen with infrared cameras or measured as a temperature with infrared thermometers.
Advantages
Infrared digital thermometers are exceptionally accurate and return an instantaneous reading. They can also cover a large area or several food sources very quickly without having to remove and insert a cooking probe.
Another significant advantage to using these types of thermometers is to avoid the possibility of cross contamination. A lot of people these days are allergic or intolerant to different food sources. Just consuming the tiniest amount of a certain food could have serious medical implications.
This is much less likely to occur using an infrared cooking thermometer than a standard probe type thermometer which has to be inserted into the food.
Check cooking surface temperatures may also be necessary and an infrared thermometer is perfect for this. Ovens, smokers, saute pans, and grills can all be checked with infrared technology. For example, the best temperature for cooking pancakes is between 350 and 370 degrees Fahrenheit, while meat sears best at or near 450 degrees.
For liquids or sauces, simply give a quick stir before obtaining a digital reading. This will provide a measurement of the liquid's overall temperature.
Disadvantages
The major downside is the thermometers inability to gauge the temperature in the middle of the food. Infrared will only reflect and obtain a reading from the surface of foods and will not penetrate into the middle. For most food sources you will need to use a probe thermometer to ensure a more accurate reading throughout.
An obvious solution might well be to combine the advantages of both types of instant read thermometers into one. Fortunately there is a product on the market that does just this and has some pretty good reviews too. It is the Taylor Professional 9306 Dual Temp IR/Thermocouple Thermometer:
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Taylor Professional 9306 Dual Temp IR/Thermocouple Thermometer List Price: Sale Price: $81.45 You save: $18.54 (19%)  Eligible for free shipping!Availability: Usually ships in 2-3 business days  |
Description
The 9306 measures surface temperatures without contact.It can also measure internal temperatures with its 4" fold-out probe.The 9306 was developed in our food service division and is now available to you through Amazon.com.The compact design allows you to carry in your pocket or on your belt.IR Specs:Range -67to 572F/-55 to 250C. Accuracy +2F/+1C.Distance to Spot Ratio =3:1 Thermocouple Specs: Range -67 to 572F/-55 to 330C.Accuracy +2F/+1C.
Features
- 3-Inch dial measures temperatures from 120 to 200-degrees fahrenheit
- Face displays proper meat, poultry, and yeast temperatures
- Made of stainless steel with 3-1/2-inch stem
- Easy to read ; needs no skewer
- Safe to use in dishwasher
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