Org Newsroom Menu Beef. According to a nationwide survey, a vast majority of Americans continue to overlook one of the best lines of defense against the risk of foodborne bacteria using instant-read thermometers. It is encouraging to see improvement in thermometer use, but more consumer education, such as the government s Thermy campaign, is needed.
Safety is a top priority for the beef industry.
We are investing millions of dollars into research to detect and eliminate harmful bacteria in beef. And raising the awareness of proper cooking and handling of all foods is an important effort for consumer safety. The previous survey was conducted in April 1999. Instant read thermometer use is extremely low although it has increased from 2 percent in April 1999 to 7 percent today. Consumers are not familiar with proper cooking temperatures.