What is the minimum internal temperature for stuffing?

What is the minimum internal temperature for stuffing?

• A. 150 degrees F
• B. 145 degrees F
• C. 155 degrees F
• D. 165 degrees F

Answer: (D)

The essential safety guideline is that stuffing must reach 165°F in the center to be considered safe. This temperature reliably kills common pathogens such as Salmonella that can be present in poultry juices. When the stuffing is cooked inside the bird, the center can stay cooler than the outer meat, so you should test the very center with a thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F. If you bake stuffing separately, it still needs to reach 165°F in the center before serving. Temperatures like 150, 145, or 155°F are not sufficient to guarantee safety for stuffing.

The essential safety guideline is that stuffing must reach 165°F in the center to be considered safe. This temperature reliably kills common pathogens such as Salmonella that can be present in poultry juices. When the stuffing is cooked inside the bird, the center can stay cooler than the outer meat, so you should test the very center with a thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F. If you bake stuffing separately, it still needs to reach 165°F in the center before serving. Temperatures like 150, 145, or 155°F are not sufficient to guarantee safety for stuffing.