Cooking Safety Disclaimer
Cooking Times is designed to help you plan, but food safety is always checked in the kitchen, not only on a timer.
Last updated: 2 July 2026Use a thermometer
Always use a suitable food thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat or food. Avoid bone, fat and gristle where relevant, because they can give misleading readings.
Do not rely only on colour, clock time or oven temperature. Timings are a guide, not proof that food is safe.
High-risk foods
Poultry, minced meat, burgers, sausages, rolled joints, stuffed joints, reheated food and food served to vulnerable people require extra care.
If food has not reached a safe internal temperature or does not look properly cooked, keep cooking and check again.
BBQ and outdoor cooking
BBQs, smokers and outdoor grills vary widely. Air temperature, fuel, lid opening, wind, rain, direct heat and indirect heat can all change cooking time.
Use the site as a planning guide only. Check the final temperature and texture before serving.