Cooking temperature for ground turkey refers to the internal temperature at which ground turkey is considered safe to eat. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure that any harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella, are killed. This temperature can be measured using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ground turkey.
Cooking ground turkey to the proper temperature is crucial for food safety. Consuming undercooked ground turkey can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, foodborne illnesses can lead to hospitalization or even death.